We’d like to share a quick heads-up from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) about a recent scam targeting students and educational institutions. While these scams can look convincing, being aware of them is the best way to stay protected.

What’s Happening?

Scammers have been pretending to be schools by sending emails about “overdue school fees.” Here’s how the scam usually works:

• A scammer gains access to a real school email account.
• They send emails asking students to pay overdue fees immediately, sometimes warning of legal action if payment isn’t made.
• The email asks for payment through a bank transfer (often to a DBS account) or a payment link.
• Victims only realize it’s a scam after checking with the school later.

How to Protect Yourself

If you ever receive an email about paying school fees, keep these simple tips in mind:

✅ Pause before paying. Urgent payment requests can be a red flag.
✅ Check the source. Always confirm payment requests through your school’s official channels or student portal.
✅ Avoid unknown payment instructions. Never transfer money to accounts you can’t verify.
✅ When in doubt, ask. A quick check with the school can save you from a scam.

A Note on Email Security

Schools are also encouraged to use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for email accounts to make them more secure and prevent unauthorized access.

Need Help?

If you think you’ve encountered a scam or want advice, you can contact the ScamShield Helpline at 1799.

Scammers rely on people reacting quickly without checking first. A quick pause and verification can make all the difference. Stay alert and help spread the word to keep our community safe.