Scam in SingaporeTheft
Pickpocketing in crowds in Singapore
How it works
A thief takes belongings from your pocket or bag in a crowd. No specific method is described.
Warning signs
- People are packed closely around you.
- Your bag is open or your valuables are easy to reach.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag closed and in front of you.
- Keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets.
- Check your belongings after passing through a crowd.
If it happens to you
Report the theft to the police as soon as possible. Block any missing payment cards.
- Move to a safe place. Call 999 if you face immediate danger.
- Contact your card issuer immediately if a card, card details or payment account may be at risk. Ask about blocking access and disputing the payment.
- Save receipts, messages, booking details and screenshots. Write down what happened while you remember it.
- Report theft or fraud to the Singapore Police Force as soon as possible. Use 1799 for a police scam enquiry.
- For a shop dispute, call 1800-736-2000. For a taxi charge, contact the taxi company with your receipt.
- Contact your insurer if you may claim for a loss. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement help.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- WebNational Crime Prevention Council2026Pick PocketSingapore's National Crime Prevention Council warns that pickpockets target crowds using deliberate bumps, commotions and other distractions.Read on Web
- Government advice2026Singapore travel adviceCanadian travel advice reports pickpocketing and purse snatching in Singapore, particularly at airports, hotels, public transport facilities and tourist areas.Read on Government advice
- Government advice2026Singapore Travel Advice & Safety | SmartravellerAustralian travel advice says pickpocketing is rare in Singapore but can occur at airports, tourist destinations, hotels and on public transport.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the pickpocketing in crowds scam in Singapore?
A thief takes belongings from your pocket or bag in a crowd. No specific method is described.
How can I spot it early?
People are packed closely around you. Your bag is open or your valuables are easy to reach.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in crowds in Singapore?
Keep your bag closed and in front of you. Keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets. Check your belongings after passing through a crowd.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Report the theft to the police as soon as possible. Block any missing payment cards.
Where in Singapore does this happen?
Crowded areas.
How common is this scam in Singapore?
Occasional. Singapore has a low risk of tourist scams. Most taxi drivers and shopkeepers are honest, but watch for bogus monks asking for donations, shop rip-offs, disputed taxi charges and pickpockets in crowds.
Who can I report it to?
Singapore Police Force: report crimes as soon as possible. Call 999 for an emergency, or use emergency SMS on 71999. Police scam enquiry: call 1799. Local call rates apply. Singapore Tourism Board: for a shop rip-off, call the free domestic hotline on 1800-736-2000. Small Claims Tribunal: at 1 Havelock Square. An expedited process for tourists can resolve simple cases within 24 hours. Taxi company: contact the operator shown on your taxi or receipt. Ask it to explain disputed charges and provide your journey details. Card issuer or payment provider: use its official app or contact number to report unauthorised payments, block cards and ask about a dispute. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is stolen.
What number do I call in an emergency in Singapore?
Police emergency: 999, Police emergency SMS: 71999, Police scam enquiry: 1799, Ambulance and fire emergency: 995, Ambulance and fire emergency SMS for deaf people: 70995.
Reviewed by @snuck