How can I tell if an FDW profile on Facebook is a scam?

Warning signs include: requests for upfront deposits before meeting, PayNow to personal accounts (not company), pressure to 'secure' helper immediately, photos that look stolen, vague work history with no MOM records, and communication only via WhatsApp/Telegram.

How do I verify if an employment agency is legitimate in Singapore?

Check MOM's official Employment Agency Directory at mom.gov.sg. Search the agency's license number (format: 12C0123). Verify the license is active, check for suspensions or demerit points, and confirm they have a physical office address.

What should I do if I already paid a scammer?

1) File a police report immediately at eservices.police.gov.sg, 2) Contact your bank to request transaction reversal if within 24 hours, 3) Report to MOM at mom_fmmd@mom.gov.sg if it involves a fake agency claim.

Are deposits for FDW interviews normal?

No. Legitimate employment agencies in Singapore do not require deposits to 'secure' an interview slot. You should only pay agency fees after you have met the helper, agreed to hire, and signed a service agreement.

How can I verify if an IPA letter is real?

Real IPA letters: 1) Come only from @mom.gov.sg email addresses, 2) Have perfect spelling, 3) Include a QR code that links to MOM's portal when scanned, 4) Can be verified through MOM's FDW eService with your employer credentials.

Protect Yourself from Scams

Singapore FDW Scams: Stay Safe

Over 200 reported cases in 2025 of fake FDW profiles, stolen photos, and fraudulent IPA letters in Singapore Facebook groups. Learn how to protect yourself.

Find Helper Safely

3 Common FDW Scams in Singapore

Deposit Trap Scam

Scammer posts helper profile, demands $200 deposit via PayNow, then disappears.

Fake IPA Letters

Forged MOM documents with typos like "Minitry of Manpower". Asks for processing fees.

Agency Fee Advance

Fake agency demands full $2,000 fee upfront. No MOM license, no office. Money gone.

How to Verify Employment Agencies

1 Go to MOM's Employment Agency Directory at mom.gov.sg
2 Search agency license number (format: 12C0123)
3 Verify: Active license, no suspensions, physical address

Official Reporting Channels

Singapore Police

eservices.police.gov.sg

Ministry of Manpower

mom_fmmd@mom.gov.sg

ScamShield Hotline

1800-722-6688