Advisory: Beware of Fake Investment Websites Impersonating Brands

bear-world.org
qumbep.net
vandamining.net

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) warns the public about a recent increase in fake investment websites, some of which impersonate well-known brands like "Bear World", "QUALCOMM invest", and "V&A MINING". These fraudulent sites are designed to trick individuals into believing they are legitimate investment opportunities, often promising high returns with little to no risk. Victims are persuaded to deposit money, only to find themselves unable to withdraw their funds or contact the scammers.

How to recognise these scams (ACT: Check)

• Be suspicious of websites or platforms that promise unusually high returns or guaranteed profits in a short period. Legitimate investments always carry some risk.
• Always verify the legitimacy of any investment opportunity or website by checking with official sources, such as the company's official website or the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) Investor Alert List. Look out for slight misspellings in URLs or unusual domain names (e.g., bear-world.org instead of the official company domain).

What to do if you encounter or are affected by such scams (ACT: Tell)

• Stop all communication immediately if you suspect you are dealing with a scam. Do not transfer any more money or provide further personal details.
• Report the incident to the police promptly. If you have shared your bank details or made any transactions, contact your bank immediately to freeze your accounts and report the fraudulent activity.
• Change passwords for any online accounts that may have been compromised (ACT: Add security features).
• Inform your family and friends about these scams to protect them from falling victim.

Unsure if something is a scam? Check by calling the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799.