SINGAPORE: In a shocking turn of events, a man named Alvin Kok Jun Keat discovered a method to monetize the dark world of online scams using SMS modems. His ventures in 2022 revealed a nefarious operation that raked in nearly S$890,000 (approximately US$697,000), leaving a trail of devastation linked to reported losses exceeding S$51 million.

The Rise of a Criminal Enterprise

Kok’s journey into crime began when he stumbled upon an SMS modem capable of receiving messages sent to numerous SIM cards. This discovery set off a chain reaction, leading him to create chat accounts for enemies of the law who wanted to hide their identities while executing scams.

Connecting the Dots: Tan Shay Howe's Role

As Kok expanded his operations with the help of associates like Tan Shay Howe, who was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison after pleading guilty to his involvement, the syndicate’s network grew. The court revealed that the syndicate relied on a system of pre-registered SIM cards to provide customers with anonymous WhatsApp and WeChat accounts.

A Sinister Business Model

Kok sold these chat accounts for a mere US$30 for WhatsApp and US$10 for WeChat, with payments directed to a cryptocurrency wallet for easy cashing out. Customers from countries like Malaysia, Myanmar, and Cambodia eagerly bought these accounts, with many using them in overseas scams.

The Law Strikes Back: A Major Police Raid

The operations came crashing down in May 2024 when Singapore's Anti-Scam Command executed a raid at Da Sheng Motoring, uncovering a staggering cache of 24,000 SIM cards and 27 SMS modems, alongside other equipment, marking a triumphant moment for law enforcement.

Judicial Actions and Sentencing Debates

Judge Crystal Goh weighed the prosecution's call for a harsh sentence against Tan's limited role, ultimately determining that while he financed the venture, his direct involvement was minimal. The judge's decision underscores the complexity of criminal networks and the varied roles individuals play within them.

The Bigger Picture: A Cautionary Tale

This scandal serves as a chilling reminder of how technology can be misused for criminal enterprises. As authorities tighten their grip on cybercriminals, the message is clear: engaging in or enabling scams has serious consequences, and the days of operating in the shadows are numbered.