{
  "id": 7696704,
  "title": "At least S$71,000 lost to job scams associated with Pokémon & other trading cards since Aug. 25, 2026",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/15/at-least-s-71-000-lost-to-job-scams-associated-with-pokemon-other",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-15T16:19:38.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Mothership",
    "slug": "mothership",
    "url": "https://mothership.sg/2026/09/71000-lost-job-scams-pokemon-trading-cards/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Since August 25, 2026, at least S$71,000 has been lost due to scams involving online tasks related to Pokémon and trading cards, according to the Singapore Police Force. Scammers reach out to victims via unsolicited messages or calls, offering remote jobs involving Pokémon or trading card-related tasks. Victims are directed to fraudulent websites where they complete tasks such as opening digital trading card packs or selecting cards for commission. To advance in these tasks, victims are required to make cryptocurrency transfers or deposits. Some initially receive small payouts but are later asked for more payments to clear debts, restore accounts, or withdraw earnings. Victims realize they've been scammed when they cannot withdraw their money. To avoid such scams, the police advise using the ScamShield app to block scam calls and filter suspicious texts, check scam signs from official sources like the ScamShield Helpline (1799), and verify the legitimacy of messages and websites via the app or website. They also warn against accepting job offers promising high returns with little work or upfront payments. Anyone experiencing doubts should contact the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 and report any fraudulent transactions to their bank immediately. Further scam information is available at www.scamshield.gov.sg.",
  "summary": "Victims are instructed to complete tasks, such as opening digital trading card packs or selecting trading cards in exchange for commissions.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}