Beware of fraudulent messages demanding ransom for kidnapped family members: Police

SINGAPORE — The police has warned members of the public about fraudulent text messages claiming their loved ones have been kidnapped.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday (April 4) afternoon, the police said it received "numerous reports" about such messages, which also asked some members of the public to transfer money into a bank account to ensure the safety of their loved ones.

The post came with a screenshot of one such message, claiming that the receiver's daughter was kidnapped, and demanded S$500,000 to be transferred into a bank account.

The message added that if the receiver lodges a police report, "I will rape your daughter".

Members of the public who have received the messages are advised to remain calm, and not follow the instructions to transfer any money, said the police.

They should also contact their loved ones to confirm their safety. They should not reply to the messages, and they should block the numbers.

Those who wish to provide more information about these cases can call the police hotline at 1800-255-0000, or head to www.police.gov.sg/iwitness.