At least 179 cases of e-commerce scams involving Shopee were reported to the police in 2024, resulting in losses of at least S$399,000, according to a police statement released on 24 January 2025.
The scammers used deceptive tactics to target Shopee users by hosting live streams or listing fake products on the platform. These tactics enticed victims to place orders, believing they were legitimate sellers. Once orders were placed, the scammers manipulated victims into completing their transactions outside of the Shopee app, offering discounts as incentives.
Victims were often redirected to messaging platforms such as Telegram and WhatsApp. In some instances, scammers added victims to Telegram group chats that included accomplices posing as satisfied buyers. These fake buyers would falsely confirm receipt of their products to build credibility for the fraudulent sellers.
After gaining the victims’ trust, the scammers would request payments via PayNow or bank transfers. In certain cases, victims were informed that their purchased items had been withheld at Customs and were asked to transfer additional funds to resolve the issue.
Victims often realised they had been scammed when they failed to receive their products, or when the sellers became uncontactable or were banned by Shopee.
Shopee customers are advised to avoid completing transactions outside the app to safeguard themselves against scams. Shopee’s in-app payment system includes the Shopee Guarantee feature, which withholds payments to sellers until buyers confirm receipt of their orders, providing a layer of protection for users.
The police are urging the public to exercise caution and transact only within the Shopee platform to avoid falling victim to such scams. For additional information on scams, the public can visit www.scamshield.gov.sg or contact the ScamShield Helpline at 1799.
E-commerce scams remain a persistent issue, with scammers continually devising new ways to exploit online shoppers. Authorities are emphasising the importance of vigilance and awareness, particularly when dealing with unfamiliar sellers or offers that seem too good to be true.