Social Media Giveaway Scams in Singapore: Don’t Click That Link!

Social Media Giveaway Scams in Singapore: Don’t Click That Link!

Introduction

Free prizes on social media are tempting; flashy banners, celebrity posts, and “limited time” countdowns make giveaways look real. But in Singapore, scammers are using fake social media giveaways to steal personal data, bank details, and even take over accounts.
These scams now appear across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Telegram, and WhatsApp, targeting thousands of users daily.

This guide explains how social media giveaway scams work in Singapore, real examples, the risks if you click, and how to protect yourself.

What Is a Social Media Giveaway Scam?

A social media giveaway scam promises prizes like vouchers, gadgets, or cash to trick users into taking unsafe actions. These include:

• Clicking phishing links that lead to fake websites.

• Filling in forms with NRIC, bank details, or personal data.

• Liking, sharing, or tagging friends to spread the post.

• Sharing QR codes or one-time passwords (OTPs) that give scammers access to your accounts.

• Downloading malicious apps or paying fake “processing fees.”

In Singapore, scammers often impersonate local brands, supermarkets, telcos, or government agencies. They exploit national events like Chinese New Year or National Day to appear legitimate.

How These Scams Work

1. Impersonation of trusted brands – Fake Facebook or Instagram pages copy official logos and names.

2. Viral tactics – “Tag 10 friends to win!” posts spread scams fast.

3. Phishing websites – Fake login pages capture your credentials.

4. Data-harvesting forms – Collecting your personal information for identity theft.

5. Malware downloads – Apps disguised as giveaway claim tools infect your phone.

6. Payment requests – “Shipping” or “verification” fees steal card details.

Common Examples in Singapore

• Fake supermarket vouchers (FairPrice, Sheng Siong, Cold Storage).

• Parcel delivery scams pretending to be from SingPost.

• Government relief scams during Budget or GST Voucher season.

• Fake influencer giveaways mimicking local celebrities.

• “Flash sale” pages with unrealistic prices and fake checkout systems.

Red flags to watch for:

• New social accounts with few posts, strange URLs, misspelled usernames, or poor grammar.

• Requests for NRIC, bank info, or OTPs.

• “Limited-time” urgency designed to make you act fast.

What Happens If You Click

Clicking a scam link can cause:

1. Account takeover — Your passwords are stolen.

2. Identity theft — NRIC and personal data are misused.

3. Financial fraud — Your cards or bank accounts are compromised.

4. Malware infections — Spyware and ransomware steal more information.

5. Reputational damage — Scammers message your friends using your profile.

How to Verify Giveaways

Before clicking any link:

• Confirm it’s from the official verified account.

• Check if the giveaway is listed on the brand’s official website.

• Avoid shortened URLs or unfamiliar domains.

• Never share NRIC, OTPs, or banking details.

• Real giveaways will not ask for payments or “verification fees.”

If You Clicked or Shared Information

Act immediately:

1. Change your passwords and enable 2FA.

2. Call your bank if card details were entered.

3. Report the post to Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.

4. File a police report via the Singapore Police Force e-services.

5. Install and run anti-malware on your phone or PC.

6. Warn your contacts if your account was compromised.

Where to Report Scams in Singapore

• Singapore Police Force (SPF)

• ScamShield App – Blocks scam calls and messages 

• Scam.SG - Build awareness in the community

How Brands and Influencers Can Help

• Announce official giveaways on brand websites first.

• Apply for verification badges on social media.

• Educate followers on how to identify scams.

• Report impersonation accounts immediately.

• Use secure contest tools instead of external links.

Stay Smart, Don’t Click That Link

Social media giveaways can be legitimate and rewarding. But in Singapore’s connected world, scams are always waiting for that single click. Adopting a sceptical mindset, learning the red flags, and taking rapid action if something goes wrong will reduce your risk. Remember: genuine organisations won’t rush you into sharing sensitive personal information or demanding payments to claim a prize.

If you’re unsure about a giveaway you saw online, check the brand’s official website, look for announcements on verified accounts, or contact the company directly through verified customer service channels. And if you or someone you know has been affected by a social media giveaway scam, report it to the Singapore Police Force and your bank immediately.

Stay smart, stay safe, stay vigilant with Scam.SG.