What Are the Latest Scam Call Tactics in 2025? How Singaporeans Can Spot and Stop Them

Introduction

Scam calls continue to evolve rapidly. In 2025, Singaporeans are facing more advanced bank scams, fake police calls, and impersonation frauds that blend AI, caller ID spoofing, and clever social engineering. These calls may appear to come from DBS, OCBC, UOB, government agencies, or even a trusted family member. Staying alert is the only way to protect your money, identity, and peace of mind.

This guide explains the latest scam call tactics seen in Singapore, why they are effective, and the steps you can take to recognise, stop, and report them. It also includes key hotlines for DBS, UOB, and OCBC, as well as where to get reliable help from Scam.SG — Singapore’s dedicated scam prevention resource.

Why scam calls are still effective in 2025

Despite years of public education, scam calls remain effective because of three key factors: technology, psychology, and urgency. Deepfake audio tools now make voice cloning so convincing that scammers can mimic relatives or officials. Caller ID spoofing tricks people into answering because the number looks like a DBS hotline, an OCBC service desk, or even their own phone number. Social engineering techniques combine leaked personal data with believable narratives to lower scepticism. Finally, scams are no longer isolated calls — they are multi-channel campaigns that mix WhatsApp, SMS, and fake websites to create a sense of legitimacy.

The latest scam call tactics in Singapore

1. A I voice-cloned “family emergency” calls
   In these cases, victims hear what sounds like a loved one in distress. A “nephew” might call claiming to be detained overseas, using a cloned voice from social media. The scammer pressures the victim to transfer money via PayNow. The danger lies in the emotional manipulation and the authenticity of the voice. Always pause, ask questions only the real person would know, and verify through a separate channel before acting.
2. Bank officer impersonation with QR code requests
   Another trend is the DBS scam or OCBC scam call where fraudsters pose as bank staff. They reference real transactions from leaked data, then send a QR code via SMS or WhatsApp to “reverse” a charge. Scanning it leads to a fake PayNow or PayLah! page that captures your login or authorises a transfer. If this happens, hang up immediately and call your bank using the number on the back of your card or the official DBS, UOB, or OCBC hotline. Remember, banks never ask for QR scans, PINs, or OTPs over the phone.
3. Government impersonation with fake fines or appointments
   Fraudsters posing as IRAS or CPF officers claim you owe money or missed an appointment. They demand urgent payment to a “designated account” or threaten penalties. Their official tone makes the scam convincing. Always verify directly through myTax Portal, CPF e-Services, or official government hotlines instead of trusting unsolicited calls.
4. Remote access and payment authorisation scams
   These calls direct victims to install apps like AnyDesk or disguised “security apps.” Once installed, scammers gain control of the device and silently authorise fraudulent transfers. Another trick involves repeatedly prompting you to approve push notifications on your banking app. If asked to install unfamiliar software, disconnect your device from the Internet and contact your bank right away.
5. Job offer and mystery shopper scams
   Many Singaporeans continue to receive calls promising high-paying side jobs. The catch? You must pay a “training fee” or test a transaction first. Victims who comply not only lose money but also risk being manipulated further. No genuine employer will ask for upfront payment. Always verify through company websites or official HR channels.
6. Tech support scams targeting smart devices
   With Singaporeans embracing IoT, scammers call pretending to be from telcos like StarHub or Singtel. They claim your router is compromised and demand remote access or payment for “emergency fixes.” Never provide router credentials or follow instructions from unsolicited calls. Instead, verify directly with your provider.
7. Fake callback verification hotlines
   Some scammers trick victims into calling back a number to “verify” a claim. The number often leads to overseas call centres or premium-rate lines, resulting in financial losses or more fraud attempts. Always source numbers from official websites, not from the caller.

How scammers get your details

Fraudsters often obtain personal information through data breaches, oversharing on social media, SIM swaps, phishing attacks, or simply buying leaked databases from the dark web. These details make their impersonation more credible, whether it’s a fake UOB scam call referencing your last transaction or a “police officer” quoting your NRIC number.

Practical steps Singaporeans can take now

The most important thing to remember is that urgency is a red flag. Pause before acting. Do not share OTPs, banking passwords, or Singpass details. If in doubt, hang up and call your bank or agency back using numbers from their official website. DBS, UOB, and OCBC customers should save their hotlines in advance.

You should also enable stronger two-factor authentication with authenticator apps instead of SMS where possible, review your social media privacy settings, and install ScamShield to block known scam numbers. Families, especially elderly members, should be briefed about these scams regularly, since seniors remain prime targets.

For more tips and a step-by-step guide, visit Scam.SG, which provides localised resources and prevention checklists.

How to report scam calls in Singapore

If you suspect a scam, act quickly. File a report with the Singapore Police Force online or call 999 in emergencies. You can also call the Anti-Scam Helpline at 1799. Contact your bank immediately if you revealed any details or made a transfer — whether it’s the DBS hotline, OCBC hotline, or UOB hotline. Telcos can also help by blocking numbers, and the Cyber Security Agency investigates larger scam campaigns.

Final checklist: what to do if you receive a suspicious call

• Do not panic — scammers want you to act fast.

• Do not share OTPs, PINs, or install apps.

• Verify independently using official bank or agency numbers.

• Record details such as time, number, and what was said.

• Report immediately to the police, your bank, and Scam.sg.

• Warn family and friends so they don’t fall victim to the same trick.

Conclusion

Scam calls in 2025 are more convincing than ever, using AI voices, spoofed numbers, and stolen data. But the core defence remains the same: stay calm, never share sensitive information, and always verify using official hotlines. If you are in doubt, hang up and check with your bank or the relevant agency directly.

Scam tactics will continue to evolve, but vigilance, education, and swift reporting can significantly reduce their success. Stay updated with the latest scam alerts on Scam.SG and share these tips with your family, especially elderly relatives. Together, we can stop scam calls from succeeding in Singapore.

Stay smart, stay safe and stay vigilant in Scam.SG.