POLICE on Friday received nine more reports of kidnap scams bringing the total number of cases reported to 21 in the past three days.

The modus operandi for such a scam is simple. The callers claim that family members of the people they contacted have been kidnapped and threaten to harm them unless the ransom was paid.

Sometimes, cries of help can even be heard from the supposed kidnapped victim. But the scam is not new.

Last year, one retired couple, Mr and Mrs Lim fell for the ruse.

After receiving a call saying their 30-year-old real estate manager son had been kidnapped, they promptly paid the ransom of $52,000. This turned out to be untrue and their money was lost.

Fortunately, no one was duped in the nine scam calls received on Friday.

Police urge members of the public to be wary of such kidnap scams, as well as other scam calls concerning lottery or lucky draws.

The public should try to contact the supposed kidnap victim immediately or ask questions about the family to ascertain that the call is genuine.

Last year, 378 Singaporeans fell prey to phone scams. The total amount cheated from the victims was $4.6 million.