Scam

If a stranger befriends you online or through social messaging applications such as WeChat and talks you into buying them purchase/gift cards (e.g. Alipay Purchase Cards, iTunes) in exchange for a meet-up, date or the promise of sexual favours, this is likely a Credit-for-Sex scam.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

• Watch out for strangers trying to befriend you on Facebook, WeChat, and iAround, especially if they offer escort, massage or sexual services
• Be wary of people who profess to have strong feelings for you after just a short period of time and want to chat with you privately
• Poorly written messages – they might even refer to you by the wrong name
• Be suspicious of repeated requests for favours or money

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

• Do an image search for the person's photo – they might have used a generic photo to grab your attention
• Do not give out personal details to strangers on the Internet
• Do not provide payment receipts containing details such as PINs to anyone
• If you have encountered such a scam, call the Police at 1800-255-0000 or dial 999 for urgent assistance

Source: Scam Alert Singapore