The Phenomenal Growth of ScamShield Helpline

In Singapore, the ScamShield helpline has seen an explosive growth in inquiries, soaring from an average of just 30 calls a day to a staggering 700! This remarkable shift reflects the surge in scam-related incidents that have plagued the community.

A Personal Connection to the Crisis

Meet Ms. Ashley Teh, a dedicated 26-year-old helpline operator who responds to about 50 calls daily. Her commitment deepened after her close friend fell victim to a job scam, losing a shocking $25,000. This incident struck a chord with Ashley, emphasizing that anyone, regardless of age, can become a target for scammers.

24/7 Lifeline: The Heart of ScamShield

Launched in September 2024, the 24-hour helpline, 1799, boasts a dynamic team of over 10 agents, a significant rise from just six. Relocated to Certis East Coast in Bedok, the new operations center was inaugurated on September 15, celebrating its first anniversary while accommodating the increasing call volume.

A Safety Net for Vulnerable Callers

On the helpline, agents like Ashley work diligently to not only verify scams but also provide emotional support. Many callers seek reassurance, too embarrassed to share their experiences. Ashley shares, 'Sometimes, they just want someone to listen to them.' Each call presents a unique story, exemplified by one caller who narrowly avoided losing his life savings in a fraudulent insurance scheme.

Innovations to Combat Scams

To bolster their efforts against this growing threat, the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) plans to integrate artificial intelligence into their operations. This tech upgrade aims to streamline processes, allowing agents to focus more on individual callers and less on routine checks.

Alarming Scam Statistics

According to police reports, a staggering $456.4 million was lost to scams in the first half of 2025, marking a decrease from the previous year. However, the alarming rise in government impersonation scams—nearly tripling to 1,762 cases—signals that the fight against these deceptive practices is far from over.

A Call to Action for the Public

Digital Development Minister, Josephine Teo, recently launched the 'Stop and Check' campaign, urging citizens to scrutinize unsolicited messages and calls, reinforcing that scammers constantly evolve their tactics. NCPC’s Gerald Singham echoes this sentiment, reminding the public that scams target the uninformed, not specific demographics. He encourages everyone to add ScamShield to their devices for enhanced protection.

Stay Vigilant: Your Safety Matters!

As scams evolve, remaining vigilant and informed is crucial. Remember, if you're uncertain about a suspicious contact, don't hesitate to call the ScamShield helpline at 1799. Your vigilance could save you from becoming the next victim!