Scam Sign: Urgent Money Transfers – Fake Friend Call

What is it?

• You receive a call asking to guess his/her identity and update contact details with new number
• Scammer will follow-up with call or message a few days later asking for urgent loan or favours due to emergency, includes:
  • Company cashflow issues
  • Download third party app to make purchase of goods and services,restaurant reservations or locate mobile phone. This app contains malware

How to stay safe? 

• Always CHECK with your friend or family at their last known contact number to verify the authenticity of the information or request.

Scam Type	Key Scam Signs	Accompanying Advisories
Fake Friend Call Scam	It is likely a scam if the caller: Calls you using an unknown number, asks you to guess who they are and claims that he/she lost his/her old number Asks you for urgent loans for various reasons such as: Unable to perform banking transactions as they have changed to a new handphone number To pay contractor for renovation fees To pay for costs relating to the opening of a new business or eatery To pay vendors or suppliers To pay medical related fees such as hospital bills Asks you to click on links or to install third-party apps sent via text messages to help him/her through a difficult situation	ADD ScamShield app to block scam calls and filter scam SMSes Anti-virus apps to your devices (see recommendations by CSA) International Call Blocking option to your mobile account(s)  CHECK Caller's identity by calling his/her last known number, or via social media meet-up Only install apps from official app stores With someone you trust Call the Anti-Scam Helpline (1799) to check if you are unsure TELL  Warn your friends and family about your scam encounter Call your bank immediately and make a police report if you think you have fallen victim