Travel Scams Targeting Singaporeans: Fake Packages & Visa Traps

Introduction

Travel is meant to be enjoyable. Whether it’s discovering new cultures, enjoying local food, or reconnecting with family and friends. Unfortunately, for many Singaporeans, that excitement can quickly turn into stress when travel scams enter the picture.

Fake holiday packages, visa traps, and other fraudulent schemes are becoming more common. Victims can lose large sums of money, have their personal data stolen, and in the worst cases, see their entire trip fall apart at the last minute.

This guide explains why Singaporeans are often targeted, the most common types of scams, red flags to watch for, practical prevention steps, and where to report scams locally.

Why Singaporeans Are Targets of Travel Scam

• Frequent travellers: Singaporeans travel often for leisure, work and study, giving scammers more opportunities.

• Higher disposable incomes: Compared with the region, Singapore is seen as an affluent market.

• Trust in online convenience: Many locals book trips, tours, or visas online without verifying providers.

Common Travel Scams Affecting Singaporeans

1. Fake Holiday Packages and Travel Agencies

How it works
Fraudsters set up convincing websites, social media pages or e-commerce listings offering cheap all-inclusive packages. Once payments are made, usually via bank transfer, the agency vanishes, or victims receive fake booking details.

Red flags

• Prices far below market rates, especially during peak periods.
• Requests for payment via personal bank accounts or obscure platforms.
• High-pressure sales tactics (“limited-time offer”).
• Poor grammar, vague contact details, or no office address.
• Bookings that cannot be verified with the airline or hotel.

2. Visa Scams and “Guaranteed” Approvals

How it works
Scammers charge for visa applications, promising fast approvals or exemptions. They may set up websites mimicking embassies or claim insider access. Victims often only discover the truth at the airport when entry is denied.

Red flags

• Promises of guaranteed approval.
• Fees far higher than official rates.
• No clear office address or accreditation.
• Immediate demands for passport scans and sensitive details.

3. Fake Travel Insurance

How it works
Fraudsters sell invalid policies or bogus “mandatory insurance” at check-in. Victims only realise when trying to make a claim abroad.

Red flags

• Insurance sold via unofficial channels or pop-up websites.
• No clear policy documents or insurer details.
• Unrealistic coverage for very low premiums.

4. Airport and On-Route Impersonation

How it works
At airports or tourist areas overseas, scammers pose as officials, drivers or tour guides. They charge inflated fees or collect “extra taxes”. Others switch cards during “assistance” and siphon funds.

Red flags

• Unsolicited help at immigration or baggage claim.
• Cash only demands in local currency.
• Pressure to pay for services not listed upfront.

How to Verify Travel Agencies, Deals and Visa Services

1. Check official sources

• Confirm bookings with airlines or hotels directly.
• Use only embassy or government immigration websites for visa requirements.
• Verify insurance policies with the insurer’s official helpline.

2. Confirm business accreditation

• Check if the agency is licensed with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) or Association of Singapore Travel Agents (ASTA).
• Verify UENs on the ACRA BizFile+ portal.
• Look out for the travel agency's TrustScore on Scam.SG

3. Use secure payment methods

• Prefer credit cards or trusted e-wallets with buyer protection.
• Avoid personal bank transfers, especially to overseas accounts.

4. Cross-check reviews

• Look for detailed, dated reviews across multiple platforms.
• Be cautious if accounts were recently created or use repeated wording.

5. Keep clear records

• Save contracts, invoices, booking references and all communications.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

Immediate steps

• Stop payments and do not share more personal details
• Document everything, including emails, receipts and chat logs.
• Contact your bank or card provider to dispute the transaction.

Report in Singapore

• Singapore Police Force: File a report via online.
• ScamShield / Scam Alert: Report to ScamShield or Scam Alert hotline at 1799.
• Banks and e-wallet providers: Request transaction disputes or account freezes.
• Scam.SG: Report to raise awareness and build community resilience on travel scams.

How Singapore Is Responding

In Singapore, several measures are already in place to curb travel scams. Public education campaigns are rolled out regularly, especially during peak travel periods such as school holidays, to remind travellers of the risks and how to protect themselves. Law enforcement agencies, including the police and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), work together to track down syndicates, freeze scam-related accounts, and prosecute offenders. At the same time, industry players such as reputable travel platforms and payment providers are taking action by removing suspicious listings more quickly and blocking fraudulent sellers to safeguard consumers.

Conclusion

Travel should be enjoyable, not stressful. By staying alert, verifying agencies, and using secure payment methods, Singaporeans can avoid falling victim to fake holiday packages, visa scams or other fraudulent travel services. When in doubt, always cross-check with official sources before committing to a deal. Above all, remember the golden rule: if an offer seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is.

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