New research from Trend Micro has revealed that Singapore faces the highest rate of job scam attempts in the Asia Pacific region. The findings show that more than half of individuals in Singapore, or 53 per cent, reported being targeted by job scams.
Nearly one in five residents have already fallen victim to one, underscoring how financial pressure and high digital connectivity are raising exposure to online fraud.
Financial concerns heighten vulnerability
The report highlights how economic uncertainty is shaping online behaviour and increasing exposure to scams. Rising living costs and concerns about job stability have intensified bargain-hunting among consumers. Trend Micro found that 96 per cent of Singaporeans are worried about financial security, with 79 per cent actively searching for promotions and discounts to ease rising expenses.
This behaviour has fuelled susceptibility to both job and shopping scams. The study shows that 47 per cent of respondents felt their income or financial stability had been negatively affected in the past year. Among them, 62 per cent attributed the impact to higher living costs.
Ashley Millar, Consumer Education Director at Trend Micro, said scammers often rely on emotional triggers to deceive individuals. “Emotions are a powerful psychological tactic that scammers often capitalise on. In uncertain economic times, this vulnerability becomes even greater, alongside other visible pressures such as a challenging job market and rising living costs. In high-stress, high-pressure moments, consumers must combine knowledge and awareness, with healthy scepticism, caution, and the right digital tools to stay safe online,” she said.
Job scam activity continues to escalate
Singapore’s high digital connectivity is contributing to significant exposure. A total of 69 per cent of Singaporeans reported receiving unsolicited job or income offers via text or email. Many of these messages promised easy money for minimal daily work hours.
Around 35 per cent of job offers originated from unfamiliar sources, and nearly half were sent by individuals who did not identify themselves. Despite clear warning signs, close to one in four still engaged with these messages, typically driven by financial need or curiosity.
The consequences for victims varied. Forty per cent only realised they had been scammed after losing a significant amount of money, while 20 per cent discovered it after their accounts were hacked. Sixteen per cent were alerted to suspicious activity by their banks.
When compared with neighbouring markets, Singapore’s exposure stands out sharply. Australia recorded a 42 per cent targeting rate, followed by 39 per cent in New Zealand, 30 per cent in Taiwan and 12 per cent in Japan.
Shopping scams rise during peak sale periods
Trend Micro also noted a spike in online shopping scams as consumers spent more time searching for deals. The research shows that 59 per cent of Singaporeans are spending more time hunting for discounts compared with last year. Almost all respondents, or 93 per cent, said they often click or purchase items when spotting attractive promotions.
While residents remain vigilant, with 99 per cent expressing concern about scams, many still fall prey. Twenty-four per cent said they had been scammed before. Confidence in financial institutions remains relatively strong, as 72 per cent believe banks and financial providers have effective anti-scam measures.
Trend Micro stressed the importance of greater public awareness and proactive caution. The company advised consumers to verify identities, avoid suspicious links and take a moment before sharing personal information. It added that prompt reporting to banks or authorities can help reduce losses.
With financial pressures expected to persist into 2026, the research warns that scams are likely to rise. Trend Micro encouraged Singaporeans to prioritise digital safety, noting that vigilance remains the strongest defence in uncertain times.
