Well, this is the first part of series of crime prevention
advices from various organisations and websites on scams in Sg,
just post for more awareness. If not can read for fun.
From CAD websites
Lottery Scams
The public is advised to be wary of conmen involved in "Lottery
Scams". The scams involve a number of schemes, all designed to dupe
victims into parting with their money. The conmen typically send
unsolicited letters through the postal mail, facsimile or more
recently, the Internet, claiming that the addressees have won prize
money in a Sweepstake Lottery.
The bogus letter often states that the addressee was identified in
a worldwide balloting system conducted annually. The potential
victim is then required to complete a form with their full
particulars and a bank account number for the transfer of the prize
money. Once the victim responds, the conmen will often send them
various fictitious documents signed purportedly by representatives
of the genuine Lottery Company. A copy of the purported lottery
ticket will also be delivered via mail to the victim.
These notification letters and documents, designed to convince the
victim, have the hallmarks of what is commonly known as "Lottery
Scams". These offers are bogus and the victims are often duped into
paying money in up-front payments, purportedly as fees or charges
in order to facilitate the transfer of their supposed prize money
to them.
What to do if... :
Be wary when offered such get rich-quick-lottery winnings that
promise exorbitant returns. Those who receive such offers or wish
to pass on the letter to the police, can contact the Duty Officer,
Commercial Affairs Department at 63250000 or at 391 New Bridge
Road, #06-701 Police Cantonment Complex Block D, Singapore 088762.
They can also contact any police station.
Remember the following rules if you receive a notification of prize
winnings so you won't be caught out :
It is unlikely you can win a prize in a lottery you have not bought
or been given a ticket for;
It is unlikely for legitimate lotteries to ask for funds in advance
of paying out prize money; and
Be wary when you provide personal identity information to a company
or person you do not know.
