Scammers Steal Over $180,000 on Carousell Through Phishing
Singapore police report that phishing scams on Carousell have resulted in significant financial losses since July.
Singapore Scams Overview
Since July, scammers pretending to be buyers on the online marketplace Carousell have defrauded victims out of at least $180,000. This alarming trend was highlighted in a police advisory released on October 23, which confirmed a total of 63 reported cases during this timeframe.
Scam Tactics Used by Fraudsters
Victims typically encounter scammers through direct messages on Carousell or via email. These fraudsters often entice users to transition the conversation to popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp or Telegram.
Once communication is established on these apps, scammers send fraudulent PDF documents that mimic Carousell invoices. These documents include QR codes and links that the scammers claim are necessary for completing transactions or processing payments.
How the Phishing Works
Among the deceptive tactics, scammers utilized links from the “carousell.app.link” domain, making their phishing attempts appear more legitimate. After the unsuspecting victims scanned the QR code or clicked on the deceptive link, they were redirected to a counterfeit website resembling Carousell's official site.
Victims were then guided by a chatbot through a fake bank account verification process that was designed to capture their sensitive information.
The Impact of the Scam
Ultimately, victims found themselves on a fraudulent banking website, where they were prompted to input sensitive data, including internet banking details, credit card numbers, and verification codes. These actions allowed the scammers to execute unauthorized transactions, which frequently involved transferring funds to foreign credit cards.
The distressing trend of such scams is part of a broader crime wave in Singapore. In a mid-year statistics report shared on August 26, the police revealed that scams caused losses of approximately $410.6 million in the first half of 2026, a decline from the $500.2 million recorded in the same period of 2025. Nevertheless, scams still represent the most prevalent crime category in the nation.
Stay Protected from Scams
The rise in scams, especially on platforms like Carousell, emphasizes the need for vigilance and caution while engaging in online transactions. Those who suspect they have been targeted or wish to learn more about scams are encouraged to reach out to the 24-hour ScamShield Helpline at 1799 or visit www.scamshield.gov.sg for assistance.
