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SC/CPL Zhao Jiarui shares his responsibilities as a staff assistant of the Singapore Police Force’s Anti-Scam Centre.
Technology is a double-edged sword, offering both convenience and challenges. Take smart phones for example. They have evolved from simple calling and messaging devices to versatile tools for photography, browsing, gaming, and online transactions. However, while technology simplifies our lives, it has also created new avenues for scammers to exploit unsuspecting victims.
With the rise of tech-enabled crime, law enforcement personnel like SC/CPL Zhao Jiarui now fight crime both offline and online. Jiarui is currently a staff assistant at the Anti-Scam Centre (ASC), part of the Commercial Affairs Department’s Anti-Scam Command.
The importance of Jiarui’s role is underscored by the increase in online scams in Singapore. Scam cases rose by 46.8% from 31,728 in 2022 to 46,563 in 2023 — the highest number since the Singapore Police Force (SPF) began tracking scams in 2016.
In addition to rising numbers, scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. “Since the beginning of 2024, we’ve seen a rise in job scams where scammers seek Singpass credentials from victims interested in fake jobs advertised on platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp,” says Jiarui.
“When victims contact the scammers and express an interest in the job offer, the scammers would instruct the victims to change their Singpass email address and mobile numbers to those provided by them. Victims would also be requested to provide their Singpass account passwords and photos of their NRIC. Scammers would then take over and misuse victims’ Singpass accounts to fraudulently register for bank accounts,” shares Jiarui.
While vigilante justice might seem like an appropriate payback for unscrupulous scammers, Jiarui warns against making such a move. “Many people have the misconception that they can outsmart the scammers and get their money back, but this rarely works,” he says. “In fact, they usually end up losing even more money. This is because scammers exploit cognitive biases such as sunk-cost fallacy and near-miss effect to trap victims and continue to deceive them into compliance.”
The best thing to do when one realises he or she is being scammed, Jiarui adds, is to simply cut all contact with the scammers immediately. Victims should also contact their banks to block any fraudulent transactions and lodge a police report as quickly as possible.
Another common misconception is that only those who are careless fall prey to scams. Jiarui asserts that everyone can become a victim as the scams we encounter today are so sophisticated and convincing, not just because of the use of technology, but also because scammers are highly adept at exploiting greed and fear to induce compliance.
Being a full-time National Serviceman doesn’t mean that Jiarui has it easy at the ASC. In fact, he has to juggle multiple tasks, applying skills he learnt back in junior college. For example, his prior experience in video production has been especially useful when it comes to creating short videos to educate the public about scams.
“The scam education videos I help produce can reach a vast audience via social media channels such as WhatsApp and YouTube. These empower the public to recognise and combat scams,” he says. “The best defence against scams is a vigilant and discerning public.”
Jiarui also supports the operations of ScamShield, an app developed by Open Government Products in collaboration with the SPF and the National Crime Prevention Council. Launched in 2020, ScamShield allows people to filter out scam calls and messages.
Jiarui acknowledges that the fight against scams requires collective effort. “This is why we hold extensive public outreach activities, such as anti-scam talks and workshops with community partners and educational institutions. These initiatives help the public learn about the latest scams,” says Jiarui, who helps to organise such events.
The ASC also works with banks, fintech companies, telcos, and online marketplaces to tighten the noose around scammers. These partnerships, he notes, have been pivotal to the success of Project FRONTIER (Funds Recovery Operations and Networks Team, Inspiring Effective Resolutions), which involves swiftly disrupting scam activities by freezing bank accounts to mitigate monetary losses.
There have even been times when the ASC worked with international counterparts like Interpol and the Hong Kong Police Force Anti-Deception Coordination Centre (ADCC) to foil scams. “A recent example that illustrates the efficacy of the ASC’s extensive international cooperation network is its collaboration with the ADCC, DBS Bank, and UOB to foil a technical support scam, successfully recovering more than S$370,000,” says Jiarui.
Since March 2023, the ASC and its partner banks have sent out more than 68,000 SMSes to potential victims. These efforts resulted in the disruption of more than 9,400 scams and prevented more than S$148 million in potential losses.
In 2023, the ASC introduced a new anti-scam project using robotic process automation (RPA). Through partnerships with various banks, the ASC employs RPA to identify potential scam victims who transferred funds to accounts flagged for scamming. To proactively prevent further losses, the ASC issues SMS alerts to potential victims.
Jiarui doesn’t only work behind a desk — the young officer has on several occasions gone out into the field to assist with investigations. Last year, he helped prevent further losses to a 58-year-old scam victim who was nearly duped by a scammer posing as a police officer.
“Despite our efforts to convince the victim that it was a scam, she still believed that the scammer was a real police officer, and that there would be adverse consequences if she didn’t transfer the money as told,” he says. “I showed her a news article on Lianhe Zaobao about a similar case. It was only then that she started to believe us. This allowed us to prevent further losses as she was intending to transfer even more money to the scammer.”
Jiarui has also attended several public outreach sessions he helped organise, finding fulfilment in witnessing the glow of enlightenment when participants grasp new anti-scam insights. “Seeing the participants leave these sessions with a better understanding about scams always reminds me that what I do in the SPF is meaningful and has a real impact on the community,” he says.
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In a world dominated by screens, inspire your teens to unplug and enjoy some face-to-face interactions with these exciting offline adventures.
From smartphones and tablets to laptops, screens have become a constant presence in our lives. But amid the digital noise, nothing beats the joy of spending quality time with friends in the real world.
This Youth Day long weekend (30 June and 1 July) in Singapore, encourage your teens to ditch their phones and embark on offline escapades that foster genuine connections with their friends. Here’s a list of our recommended activities.
For those seeking something different beyond traditional sports, there are exciting alternatives like parkour, trampolining, padel, surfskating and longboarding.
Parkour involves navigating obstacles in your environment, providing a thrilling challenge and a great way to stay active. Trampolining allows teens to channel their inner gymnasts with safe flips and somersaults, combining fun and fitness. Padel is a doubles racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, offering a unique and intense experience. For wheel enthusiasts, surfskating mimics surfing on land with a special skateboard, while longboarding offers a smoother cruising experience with a longer board.
Beyond the thrill of the sport itself, the camaraderie and shared sense of adventure make trying new activities together an unforgettable experience.
Say goodbye to digital distractions and hello to classic board games. Far from the Snakes and Ladders and Monopoly of our childhood, modern board games have become more creative and fun.
Gather the troops for some bonding time with the extended family or help your teens organise Game Night with their friends at PlayPen. From strategic card and drawing games to uproarious party games, they’ll be spoilt for choice with its vast array of options catering to every taste and preference.
Board games aren’t just about entertainment; they also offer opportunities to sharpen critical thinking skills and stimulate creativity. So, roll the dice, draw a card and embark on a journey of mental prowess and endless fun — all in the name of healthy competition!
Prepare for an adrenaline-fuelled day out at HomeTeamNS clubhouses at Bedok Reservoir and Khatib. With a range of thrilling activities available, they’ll have the chance to test their grit, strength and mettle against daring obstacles.
Conquer a multi-level obstacle course at Action Motion (HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir), where every climb and leap pushes the limits and ignites their competitive spirit. Feel the rush of defying gravity as they scale new heights at Adventure HQ (HomeTeamNS Khatib). Or, engage in exhilarating team-based shooting challenges at Singapore’s first indoor airsoft game TactSim (HomeTeamNS Khatib). If high-octane action isn’t their style, dive into the integrated indoor water park Aqua Adventure (HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir) for a splashing good time that’s sure to leave everyone feeling refreshed.
As the teens cheer on their friends while tackling obstacles together, every moment fosters camaraderie and shared triumph — made even better with exclusive rates for HomeTeamNS members.
Bask in the sun — — and enjoy an outdoor picnic or barbecue.
The fun begins with food prep, where teens can get creative in the kitchen. From savoury charcuterie boards to mouthwatering sandwiches and succulent marinated meats, the options are endless. As they help prepare these dishes, they pick up culinary skills — whether it’s assembling sandwiches or marinating meats — before heading out to enjoy their feast with friends.
Prefer to leave the cooking to the experts? HomeTeamNS clubhouses offer various dining options. One exciting promotion is the all-you-can-eat $10 spread at Fuji Izakaya Bar KTV Pub in HomeTeamNS Khatib — perfect for mala xiang guo fans.
Despite its small size, Singapore is just waiting for your teens to discover. Start with a visit to Hi-Roller, Singapore’s largest indoor skating rink. Themed nights like Taylor Swift singalongs, Disney Night and Prom Night transform roller skating into a party on wheels — perfect for them to skate to their favourite tunes and have a blast with friends.
For a creative twist, head to Artistra Studio, Singapore’s first sneakers art jamming studio. Teens can channel their artistic flair to design and paint their own wearable art. Guided by experienced instructors, this hands-on activity blends art and fashion for an unforgettable activity.
Life’s more fun when friends are around, so why not have a sleepover on a staycation?
East Villa at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir features sleek, airy interiors amid lush greenery, providing the perfect backdrop for celebrations. Whether planning a birthday bash or a graduation party, it offers a memorable setting. From 1 July to 30 Oct 2024, every 2D1N stay during off-peak periods (Mondays – Thursdays, excluding Public Holidays) also includes six complimentary Action Passes tickets (worth $210), making it a fantastic 2-in-1 deal.
On the west side, break away from city life and immerse in a nature retreat with West Villa at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok. Equipped with private barbecue pits, and comfortable living room and kitchen amenities, the villas make it ideal for cosy get-togethers. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and fun, allowing friends to make the most of the long weekend and create lasting memories together.
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As the climate changes, here are some easy ways to still stay chill.
“It’s not just the heat — it’s the humidity.” Singapore’s double whammy of its equatorial position and island city status has given us a sweltering climate. These days, it’s packing an extra punch, as the mercury threatens to breach the 40-degree Celsius mark.
While air-conditioned offices and malls offer some relief, they’re short-term solutions. Instead of relying solely on artificial environments, Singaporeans need to adopt healthy habits to beat the heat. Here’s a guide to navigating our scorching temperatures while still enjoying all the city has to offer.
Maintaining a cool body temperature is essential for preventing heat-related illnesses like heat rash, dehydration and heat stroke. If you feel dizzy, have a headache, or feel nauseous, find shade, rehydrate and cool down immediately. Use these tips to help you stay cool and safe during hot weather.
Target your pulse points: These are areas sensitive to temperature, such as your wrists, neck, inner elbows and temples. Apply an ice pack, gel pack or even an ice cube to your pulse points to cool the rest of your body quickly and efficiently.
Breeze through your home: Create cross ventilation by opening windows and doors on opposite sides. This creates a current of air, improving airflow and significantly lowering indoor temperatures.
Keep it in: Indoor activities are a great way to avoid the sun and stay dry on rainy days. Bring the little ones to T-Play or have some grown-up competitive fun at TactSim and Laser Quest.
Trees are our friends: If you wish to head outdoors, choose shaded spots like East Coast Park, Bedok Reservoir or Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Or, try forest bathing to immerse yourself in nature’s calming effect, which helps reduce stress and lower body temperature.
Splashing good times: Water-based activities are fantastic for staying cool while enjoying some sun. Water absorbs heat from our bodies and the process of evaporation lowers temperatures (just don’t catch a chill)! Visit water centres like Aqua Adventure (it’s indoors and away from the heat) or duck into your nearest HomeTeamNS clubhouse for a refreshing dip in the pool. HomeTeamNS members enjoy free entry all day!
Portable boosts: When spending extended time outdoors, bring along portable cooling devices like mini fans or neck coolers. Minty wet wipes provide extra freshness and alleviate the stickiness from high humidity.
Sweet dreams: Stay cool at night with cooling textiles like mattress protectors, pillowcases and duvets, or a mattress with cooling toppers. Ikea offers a range of cooling products to help you beat the heat without breaking the bank.
Sun protection is essential for shielding your skin from harmful UV rays. With the help of sun-safe clothing and convenient accessories — along with these handy tips — you can prevent early ageing, unsightly pigmentation and skin cancer.
Easy and breezy: Choose clothing with longer sleeves and pants for better protection. Opt for natural fabrics like linen, cotton and bamboo, which are more breathable than synthetic fibres. Oversized clothing is on trend and provides better airflow.
Protect your skin: Technology has come a long way and now we have UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) built into our clothing as an additional safeguard. Uniqlo’s lightweight parka and Decathlon’s UV protection apparel are excellent choices for extended outdoor activities.
A shady trio: Ditch the ‘auntie’ stigma and use hats, umbrellas and sunglasses to reduce direct sun exposure and stay cooler. These items are essential for everyone, not just for older people.
Cover up: Consider wearing arm sleeves if you spend a lot of time outdoors or driving. These protect one of the most exposed and often neglected body parts. Pick sleeves with cooling fabric technology for extra comfort.
Slather it on: In this climate, sunscreen is non-negotiable. It protects against UVA (Ultraviolet A) and UVB (Ultraviolet B) rays, which cause premature ageing and skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate deeper, while UVB rays cause sunburn. Most sunscreens protect against UVB, but look for ones that also shield UVA — indicated as PA values in Japanese and Korean brands. SPF30 and above gives you 97% protection, while SPF100 offers 99% protection but may have less UVA coverage. Both chemical and physical sunscreens are effective — just remember to reapply every few hours for optimal protection, especially if you’ve been perspiring.
Hydration is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of keeping cool. Many people neglect drinking enough water due to busy schedules or not feeling thirsty, but proper hydration helps our body perspire and regulate temperature. Here are some practical tips to ensure you stay well-hydrated:
Take a sip: Always carry a water bottle and get into the habit of taking regular sips even when you’re not thirsty. Consider using bottles that track your intake to help monitor your hydration levels. Better yet, opt for a two-in-one bottle with a misting spray to cool you on the outside and keep you hydrated on the inside.
Pure and simple: Invest in a quality water purifier to ensure you always have access to fresh water at home. HomeTeamNS members can score amazing deals on water purifiers from Ruhens and Happie Singapore.
Make it tasty: If plain water isn’t appealing, add slices of lemon, lime, mint or cucumber to make it more palatable.
Add some electrolytes: Electrolytes are mineral salts that help draw water into your cells, ensuring proper hydration. Drink beverages like Pocari Sweat or 100Plus to replenish electrolytes lost during perspiration, or opt for coconut water as a delicious natural alternative.
Your diet counts: Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables like melons, peaches, papayas, lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers. Soups are also a great way to up hydration — but be mindful of its sodium content. Remember, coffee and tea are diuretics, so follow them up with plenty of water.
Face the heat: Refresh your face with a hydrating spritz from a face mist to soothe and cool your skin instantly.
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Discover the strong bond and unwavering dedication of SC/CPL Nicodemus Tan and his trusted K-9 partner, Lily, as they work tirelessly to maintain Singapore’s security.
Unlike most of his peers in the Singapore Police Force, Special Constable Corporal (SC/CPL) Nicodemus Tan Jia Hong spends about 13 hours a day with a unique partner — a gorgeous female buddy named Lily. Besides going on patrols together, Nicodemus dedicates time to play and care for her.
Sounds unusual? That’s because Lily isn’t a typical partner; she’s a K-9 Narcotic Detection Dog (NDD). A normal day for the duo includes grooming Lily and cleaning her kennel, tasks that seem mundane but are crucial for their high-stakes role in drug detection. “Dogs are generally susceptible to diseases, especially as they age. Therefore, maintaining her well-being is vital to her performance,” explains Nicodemus.
Besides brushing Lily’s fur and giving her regular baths, Nicodemus also watches out for unusual behavioural changes, which could indicate that she is ill and requires medical attention.
For someone who has never owned a pet, Nicodemus admits he was initially apprehensive about his posting to the K-9 Unit. However, any reservations quickly dissipated the moment he met Lily. “Unlike a typical Labrador with dense and flat fur, Lily’s is puffier and wavier, which I found very endearing. Also, when she looked at me with those longing eyes, I knew that she was the companion I wanted to spend my NS journey with,” he recalls.
Nicodemus was also immediately impressed by how competent the unit’s dogs were at their job. “It was just a couple of days into training and I was sceptical about a dog’s ability to find drugs. To my surprise, Lily not only detected the drugs with pinpoint accuracy, but also showed a perfect response to indicate her finding. It was a moment I’ll remember for years to come,” he says.
While a five-week training course provided the basics of canine communication, mastering the nuances of interaction with Lily required patience and observation. “As a handler, it is important to understand her likes, dislikes, and habits. This knowledge allows us to tailor our commands and encouragement effectively,” says Nicodemus. Through trial and error, he discovered the best tone for commands and learnt to interpret Lily’s body language accurately.
The cornerstone of their partnership is the strong bond Nicodemus shares with Lily. One way he achieves this is through the daily grooming sessions and the use of positive reinforcement. Nicodemus rewards Lily with playtime or treats after successful training sessions to ensure she remains eager and attentive. Positive reinforcement, he adds, is why NDDs can do what they do.
“One of the questions I get asked frequently is if K-9 dogs consume drugs during the training process so that they would be addicted and hence can sniff them out better. But that’s not the case at all,” says Nicodemus. “Contrary to popular belief, K9 dogs are neither addicted to nor interested in drugs. They are simply looking forward to playing with their favourite toy after successfully detecting drugs!”
That being said, NDD handlers like Nicodemus must also know where to draw the line and ensure that the professional relationship is not compromised. “A delicate balance must be found and maintained between companionship and authority. The key is to ensure that the dog listens to commands and is able to work effectively,” he says. “Being too soft-spoken or being too harsh could compromise on the working capabilities of the dog. At the end of the day, it is up to me to find this balance and ensure that Lily and I can be an effective team.”
During the day, the pair spends much of their time conducting rigorous search operations, from inspecting luggage at airport terminals to conducting vehicle checks. These tasks are vital in maintaining Singapore’s stringent security measures, particularly in narcotics.
“The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that our efforts contribute to upkeeping the nation’s zero-tolerance stance against drugs. It fills me with pride and purpose knowing that I am protecting the lives of Singaporeans and ensuring the sanctity of a drug-free Singapore,” he says.
The nose of a dog have up to 300 million olfactory receptors, compared to about six million in a human. This means that the animal’s sense of smell can be up to 100,000 times more acute than a human’s.
Another skill that Nicodemus has gained from his work is becoming more adaptable. He and Lily face different scenarios and challenges every day, and this has taught them how to react quickly to each situation with clarity and calmness. “Working with a dog is never predictable; this has taught me that change is the only constant and that I should approach change with an open mind,” he says.
Working with Lily has given Nicodemus the intangible reward of heart-warming memories that will last a lifetime. “I will never forget the times we spent together, the bond that we have forged, the affection she showed me and, above all, the indelible mark she has left on my life,” he says.
In fact, he is feeling melancholic about what the future holds for his trusty companion and work partner. “I will be Lily’s last handler as she will retire after I ORD. In preparation for her retirement, the K-9 Unit will arrange a health check to certify that Lily is in the pink of health for adoption,” he shares. “Hopefully, a loving family will see what I saw in her and adopt her as an addition to their family.”
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