Hotel booking phishing scams have cost victims in Singapore at least S$185,000 since January 2026.
The Singapore Police Force reported at least 148 cases, warning of a surge in scams involving hotels and booking platforms.
Victims typically receive WhatsApp messages or emails from fraudsters impersonating these businesses, asking them to verify their card details or confirm upcoming reservations.
Some messages contain genuine booking information, making the requests appear legitimate.
Victims are then directed to phishing websites and assured that no money will be deducted when they provide their card information to secure their reservations.
They subsequently authorise transactions and often discover the scam only after noticing unauthorised card charges or checking directly with their hotels.
Police advised travellers to verify suspicious requests through official hotel contact details and avoid links in unsolicited messages.
They also recommended enabling two-factor authentication, setting banking transaction limits and using Money Lock to protect savings.
Anyone who discovers fraudulent transactions should contact their bank immediately.
The public can also check suspicious messages through the ScamShield app or its 24-hour helpline at 1799.
Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Magnific
