MOF warns of scammers impersonating govt officials to solicit bank account details

SINGAPORE — The Ministry of Finance (MOF) has warned the public of scammers masquerading as the ministry or the Government to solicit bank account details from individuals looking to register for benefits announced at this year’s Budget. 

In a Facebook post on Monday (April 13), MOF said it would never ask individuals for their bank account details by email or phone.

The ministry said some eligible recipients of government payouts aimed at helping Singaporeans and permanent residents (PRs) cope with the Covid-19 crisis may not have provided the authorities with their bank account information. They should submit their details only on the official websites for Singaporeans and PRs.

All adult Singaporeans will receive a one-off payout of at least S$600 to tide them over the pandemic. PRs aged 21 and older with Singaporean parents, spouses or children will be eligible for a one-off payment of S$300.

MOF said authorised online transactions with government agencies require users to log in with their SingPass identification and password.

The ministry added that members of the public should not respond to unfamiliar email and text messages or phone calls about their Budget benefits from persons claiming to be from MOF.

Those who suspect that they have fallen prey to a phishing scam of this nature should lodge a police report immediately, and secure their online accounts and approach their banks if necessary, MOF said.