I Got Scammed at Jurong Point – Don't Fall for This MRT Fare Trick!

Average Sinkie

Average Sinkie

— 3 min read
I Got Scammed at Jurong Point – Don't Fall for This MRT Fare Trick!
Photo by Bryan Low / Unsplash

A Reddit user recently shared their experience of getting scammed at Jurong Point, falling for a common trick—someone claiming they lost their MRT card and needed money. The scammer, who initially said he was new to Singapore, put on a dramatic act, even crying, to gain sympathy. The Redditor decided to help, transferring $10 via PayNow. But when the scammer immediately asked for more money for “Makan,” the alarm bells went off.

This kind of scam is not new in Singapore. Many locals on the thread shared their encounters with similar tactics, offering tips on how to spot these con artists before you fall for their tricks.

The Classic MRT & Food Scam: How It Works

This scam relies on emotional manipulation, preying on the kindness of strangers. Here’s how it usually plays out:

  1. They approach a stranger in a public place (MRT station, shopping mall, bus interchange).
  2. They claim they lost their MRT card or have no money for food.
  3. They act distressed—some even cry—to gain sympathy.
  4. If the victim offers help, they ask for an online transfer (PayNow, PayLah, etc.).
  5. They push for more money after the first donation.

When questioned, they may change their story or use guilt-tripping tactics.

"He was crying, saying it was his first time in Singapore and no one was helping. I thought $10 wasn’t a big deal and transferred it. But when he immediately asked for $10 more for 'Makan,' I got suspicious." – OP

How to Spot a Scammer

Scammers in Singapore tend to reuse the same methods. Here are some red flags to look out for:

1. They Insist on Cash Instead of Direct Help

"If someone asks for money for food or transport, offer to buy them food or a train ticket instead. If they walk away, it's 100% a scam." – chooiiiii

How to test them:

  • If they claim they need MRT fare, offer to buy them a ticket at the counter.
  • If they say they are hungry, take them to a hawker stall and buy a meal.
  • If they refuse and insist on cash, walk away.

2. They Keep Asking for More Money

"After I gave him $10, he immediately asked for more. That’s when I knew something was off." – OP

Someone genuinely in need would not keep pressing for extra money. The moment they start asking for more, it’s a red flag.

3. Their Story Keeps Changing

"He said he was from India, but when I questioned him about knowing the word 'Makan,' he suddenly seemed nervous." – OP

Scammers often slip up when caught off guard. If their story sounds inconsistent, they’re probably lying.

4. They Have a PayNow Number Ready

"Another telltale sign is having a PayNow number. If it’s their first time in SG, they probably wouldn’t have that." – Red_TW

If someone claims to be new to Singapore but already has a local bank account and PayNow, something doesn’t add up.

5. They’ve Been Spotted Running the Same Scam Before

"I was scammed by an uncle who claimed he needed MRT fare. The next day, he was there again asking for money." – strawberwies

Some scammers stick to the same locations and reuse the same trick on different people.

What to Do If Someone Asks You for Money

1. Offer Direct Help Instead of Cash

  • Buy them a train ticket.
  • Purchase a meal for them.
  • Direct them to MRT staff or social services.
"If they really need help, they'll accept. If they walk away, they were never in need." – Pseudonymous100419

2. Suggest Calling the Police or Authorities

If they seem truly desperate, offer to:

  • Call the police or social welfare services for assistance.
  • Escort them to the MRT station to speak with staff.
"I usually offer to walk with them to the nearest police station. If they’re for real, they won’t mind." – DeeKayNineNine

Most scammers will refuse and disappear the moment you suggest this.

3. Trust Your Instincts and Walk Away

  • You are not a bad person for refusing to give money.
  • Kindness should not mean blind trust.
  • If something feels off, it probably is.
"You helped because you were kind. They took advantage of your kindness. That reflects badly on them, not you." – lkc159

Final Thoughts: Stay Kind, Stay Smart

Getting scammed can feel frustrating, but don’t let it make you lose faith in helping others. Instead, just be smarter about how you give.

"A $10 lesson is a cheap price to pay for a life lesson." – singlesgthrowaway

If you want to genuinely help those in need, consider donating to:

  • Local charities that support low-income individuals.
  • Official organizations that provide food and transport assistance.

Helping others is always a good thing—just don’t let scammers take advantage of it.

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