Police and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) have warned the public about two scam variants involving impersonators claiming to be ICA officers and fake advertisements offering help with Singapore permanent resident (PR) applications.
Since January 2026, at least 117 victims have lost at least S$8.4 million to the first scam variant, while another 31 reports involving fake ICA emails linked to PR application scams have been made, with losses of at least S$400,000.
Scammers Pretend To Be ICA Officers And China Officials
In the first scam variant, victims receive unsolicited calls from scammers pretending to be ICA officers.
The callers may claim that the victim’s personal information has been misused or that their phone number has been linked to criminal activity. They then transfer the victim to another scammer pretending to be a Chinese government official.
The fake official may demand money, cash payments or other valuables, claiming the payment is needed for an “investigation” or “bail”.
Some victims were also asked to meet unknown individuals to sign fake documents.
Police and ICA said these scams have resulted in at least 117 cases since January 2026, with losses amounting to at least S$8.4 million.
Fake PR Application Services Collect Fees
The second scam variant involves fake social media advertisements offering assistance with Singapore PR applications.
Victims who respond may be asked to provide personal information and pay fees ranging from about S$200 to around S$90,000.
After payment, scammers send fake automated ICA acknowledgement emails and fake In-Principle Approval letters to make the applications appear legitimate.
ICA has received at least 31 reports since January 2026 involving fake ICA emails linked to these scams, with victims losing at least S$400,000.
ICA Says It Will Not Ask For Money Or Bank Details
Police and ICA reminded members of the public that government agencies and ICA officers will not ask for payments through unofficial channels, gold, cryptocurrency, bank login details or the installation of unverified applications.
They also said ICA officials will not transfer calls to foreign authorities or request people to meet unknown individuals to resolve alleged investigations.
Members of the public who receive suspicious ICA-related calls or messages can verify the information through ICA’s Feedback Form or by calling ICA at 6391 6100.
Those who suspect they have encountered a scam can contact the ScamShield Helpline at 1799.
