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These are the top 4 scams of concern in Singapore for the first half of 2020

Did you know that more than S$21.2 million was recovered by the police’s anti-scam centre in their first year of operations? The figure is about 41 per cent of the amount scammers attempted to cheat victims of in the cases handled by the centre, said the police on Jul 30 this year.

Today (Aug 26), we read from the news that the rise in scams contributed to the overall crime increase in the first half of 2020. To be exact, the total number of reported crimes went up to 18,121 cases in the first half of 2020, compared to 16,240 cases reported last year.

Here are the top 4 scams of concern:

#1: E-commerce scams

Image Credits: Medium

E-commerce scams top the list. Reported cases increased by 73.8 per cent from 1,202 in the first half of last year to 2,089 in 2020.

The total amount cheated increased to S$5.4 million, up from S$1 million in the same period last year. The largest sum cheated in a single case on an e-commerce marketplace is S$175,000.

Be extra vigilant when you’re transacting with electronic items, gaming-related items, face masks, and hand sanitizers since according to the authorities, these are the most common scam transactions.

#2: Social media impersonation scams

Image Credits: The Straits Times

The number of social media impersonation scam cases jumped by more than 1,300 per cent, from 83 cases in the first half of last year to 1,175 this year. It’s currently in second place of the top 4 scams of concern.

“Scammers would often claim to help their victims sign up for online contests or promotions which turned out to be fake. Their victims would later discover that unauthorised transactions had been made from their bank accounts or mobile wallets,” the police said.

Instagram and Facebook users should be on their guard since it’s the top two platforms that social media impersonation scams take place on.

#3: Loan scams

Image Credits: The Straits Times

Loan scams increased by 56 per cent to 1,014 cases, up from 650 in 2019. The total amount cheated is a cause for concern with an increase from S$1.9 million in the first half of 2019 to S$6.5 million this year.

“Business operators such as banks, digital platform owners and telcos have a responsibility to prevent, deter and detect crimes committed through their platforms,” said the authorities.

#4: Banking-related phishing scams

Image Credits: CNA

Compared to 34 cases in the same period in 2019, the total number of banking-related phishing scams increased by more than 2,500 per cent in the first half of this year to 898 cases. The total amount cheated increased from S$93,000 to S$3.6 million.

“In the majority of these cases, victims were tricked into disclosing Internet banking usernames, personal identification numbers (PIN) and one-time passwords (OTPs) to scammers posing as bank staff,” said the police in a news release.

According to the authorities, criminals have been taking advantage of the pandemic to find their victims by exploiting the public’s fear and sense of uncertainty. This is evident from the significant increase in online scam cases reported in the first half of 2020.

If you require scam-related assistance, please call the anti-scam helpline at 1800 722 6688 or visit www.scamalert.sg to seek advice.

Ways To Put A Stop To Hair Loss In Singapore’s Hot & Humid Weather

Compared to other countries, Singapore generally has a pretty stable weather forecast all year round. But that doesn’t mean we’re better off since we have to endure the hot and humid temperatures and its effects on our scalp and hair.

During cold or dry climates, our scalps tend to produce less sebum so the chances of clogged pores are kept to a minimum. But on our sunny island, the hot and humid climate causes our scalp to release more sebum. If it’s not properly cleaned, it will result in clogged pores, dandruff, and eventually hair loss.

Luckily, we have ways to put a stop to hair loss! Here’s how.

1. Shampoo daily

Image Credits: CTV News

For those you’ve heard sayings about how washing your hair daily might strip the scalp of its natural oils, you’re not alone. However, considering Singapore’s hot and humid temperatures, daily shampooing is necessary. In fact, it’s recommended that you wash your hair daily to get rid of excess sebum or impurities that might build up on the scalp and lead to hair loss in the long-term.

According to Pooja Chhabra, a certified trichologist from TK TrichoKare, it’s wise to always opt for shampoos that do not contain any harsh ingredients. If necessary, make the switch to chemical-free shampoos without paragon and silicone. Opt for those that contain ingredients such as argan oil, rosemary, lavender, and chamomile that nourish your hair and help restore its moisture balance.

2. Use a moisturizing hair mask

Image Credits: Brawta Living

Similar to how you’ve been investing money and time on face masks, your hair needs some tender loving care too. This applies especially to individuals who have their air-conditioners turned on for the most part of the day to counter Singapore’s humidity.

We’re not sure about you but we’ve personally encountered dry and itchy skin after long periods in an air-conditioned room. This is because while the air-conditioning keeps us cool, it snaps away moisture from our body too. The same applies to our scalp and hair as well. To avoid the damaging effects on our hair, be sure to treat it with a moisturizing mask at least once a week.

3. Take care of your hair & scalp with TK TrichoKare’s award-winning treatment

While DIY routines are important, it’s also essential to let the professionals handle it at times. If you’ve tried various hair care products but to no avail, then it’s probably wise to seek a second opinion. We recommend taking care of your hair & scalp with TK TrichoKare before your condition worsens.

About TK TrichoKare

TK TrichoKare has been around in the market for a long time. With a history that dates back to 2004, they are the first and leading brand that provides customised European herbal hair remedies that are validated by certified trichologists.

If you’re not aware, trichology is the scientific study relating to scalp and hair health. It covers the anatomy, chemistry, physiology, nutrition, genetics and microbiology. With that said, trichologists are professionals who specialize in hair and scalp care. Coupled with advanced technology used in TK TrichoKare’s treatment process, you know you’re a step closer to better hair and scalp health.

Here’s what to expect during your treatment process.

Step 1: Hair & Scalp Analysis

Image Credits: TK TrichoKare

To tackle the problem, a hair and scalp analysis is needed. Using a lens tool that magnifies up to 200 times, you will be able to see for yourself your scalp condition before the treatment.

Step 2: Customised Premium European Herbal Scalp Masque

After the analysis is done, your trichologist/hair consultant will explain to you more about the hair problems you’re facing based on the scan results. Thereafter, receive a recommendation on a customised premium European herbal scalp masque to detox the scalp and remove impurities and excess sebum.

Step 3: 3-Step TriOxy Treatment

Image Credits: TK TrichoKare

You will then be ushered into the treatment area to begin your treatment process with TK TrichoKare’s 3-step triOxy treatment. The 3-step triOxy treatment consists of OxyPeel, OxyJet, and OxyNutrient.

Think of OxyPeel as an exfoliation procedure that clears up your congested hair follicles. This is followed up by OxyJet, a spray that helps to accelerate your scalp’s cell metabolism and improve blood circulation.

Once that is done, there will be a 15-minute waiting time to allow the goodness from OxyPeel and OxyJet to set in. You will then be guided to the hair bath area for a revitalizing hair bath to aid your scalp in restoring its sebum balance. Get ready to feel completely refreshed after the wash!

As you head back to your dedicated seating area, a hot pad will be placed over your shoulders. Relax and feel the tension fade away as your trichologist/hair consultant works on the last step – OxyNutrient. This provides the necessary nutrients and hydration your scalp needs to thrive.

Step 4: Photodynamic Therapy

Image Credits: TK TrichoKare

To wrap things up, sit under the Photodynamic Therapy machine that uses laser light technology to support your hair regeneration. This final step will greatly accelerate the healing process.

Book an appointment at TK TrichoKare

Liked what you just saw? The award-winning Advanced Scalp Detox & Care Treatment is now priced at just $40 nett with a free HairGRO ampoule and hair care kit (total worth up to $745). On top of that, stand a chance to win the all-new iPad 10.2-inch (worth $499) after the trial treatment.

Book yourself an appointment today!

This article is sponsored by TK TrichoKare.

More jobs and traineeships in the healthcare sector will be available for fresh graduates and mid-career job seekers

The Ministry of Health (MOH) revealed in a press release on Tuesday (Aug 25) that about 7,500 jobs and 1,600 traineeships, attachments, and skills training opportunities will be available from now till the end of 2021.

“These vacancies and opportunities will help to fulfil current and future expanding needs for healthcare services, given Singapore’s ageing population,” said MOH.

Target audience

These job and traineeship vacancies are targeting fresh graduates from the healthcare training programmes and Professional Conversion Programme (PCP) graduates who are mid-career entrants into the healthcare sector.

Out of the 7,500 job vacancies, one-third of it will be for healthcare professionals including nurses and allied health professionals, while the rest include support care, administrative, and ancillary roles.

Interested to join the healthcare sector but have no relevant background in healthcare? Fret not. The jobs in support care, administrative, and ancillary roles are aimed at fresh graduates and mid-career job seekers without a background in healthcare.

There are also positions like patient service associates, non-clinical care or administrative positions, and managerial and executive roles. Relevant training for these roles will be provided for the right candidates.

Traineeships, attachments, and skills training opportunities

Image Credits: todayonline.com

For fresh graduates, you may consider applying for the SGUnited Traineeships Programmes. Mid-career job seekers can join the SGUnited Mid-Career Pathways Programme. The programme will last from four to nine months.

“Employers can consider hiring well-performing trainees and mid-career individuals at any time during or after the completion of the traineeship or attachment,” said MOH.

More options for mid-career job seekers

Mid-career job seekers who are keen on undertaking healthcare roles like support staff and executives in clinical and non-clinical roles can apply to the SGUnited skills programmes for skills training.

For job roles like healthcare assistants, therapy assistants, community care coordinators, pharmacy technicians, and health managers and administrators, the training period will be between six and 12 months.

Seven training partners will offer more than 1,300 training opportunities and classes will start progressively from this month. They include:

HMI Institute of Health Sciences
Institute of Technical Education
NTUC Learning Hub
Republic Polytechnic
Singapore Management University
Singapore University of Social Sciences
Temasek Polytechnic

These new opportunities will become available steadily over this year and the next. You may eye the new vacancies on Workforce Singapore’s MyCareersFuture job portal, job fairs, and recruitment platforms.

SGUnited Traineeships Programme for fresh graduates

Image Credits: todayonline.com

Earlier this year in April 2020, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Workforce Singapore (WSG) said in a joint release that recent graduates of the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), polytechnics, universities, and other institutions can tap on the SGUnited Traineeships Programme from Jun 1 to boost their employability.

The aim is to have up to 8,000 traineeship opportunities this year across various industries such as life sciences, engineering, and the arts, not just the healthcare sector.

Those interested in applying can do so on www.mycareersfuture.sg. Companies with job offerings may also advertise these positions with the hashtag #SGUnitedTraineeships.

Internships & Jobs: Christian Dior Singapore, Singtel, and Parkway Dental Practice are hiring

Have you been mass sending your resume out to companies? You might want to think twice. Yesterday (24 August), we wrote about whether you should interview for a job you don’t want. Kevin Matthews, an experienced recruiter with 15 years in talent acquisition, gave us some useful pointers regarding the issue. Click here to read.

Meanwhile, we chanced upon some juicy internships and jobs with Christian Dior Singapore, Singtel, and Parkway Dental Practice you might be interested in.

#1: Christian Dior Singapore – Visual Merchandising Intern

Image Credits: curatedition.com

Allowance / Remuneration: S$800 – 1,000 monthly

Christian Dior SE, commonly known as Dior, is one of the world’s leading fashion couture houses. It symbolizes the ultimate in high fashion, luxury, elegance, and refinement. The company claims to have a culture that inspires excellence and a desire to develop and nurture the skillsets of their team.

Job Qualifications

The job qualifications weren’t listed in the job post.

Key Responsibilities

Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the visual display in boutiques following guidelines and instructions given
Support in receipt and setup of props
Involvement in project coordination with suppliers for events and set-ups
Maintenance and upkeep of all visual merchandising materials
Providing administrative support to the team

How to apply?

Submit your application to Ashlyn Ang via this link.

View the job post in full here.

#2: Singapore Telecommunications Limited – Digital Executive #SGUnitedTraineeships

Image Credits: HRM Asia

Allowance / Remuneration: S$2,100 – 2,200 (project /contract-based)

Singtel is one of Asia’s leading communications technology groups, providing a portfolio of services covering next-generation communication, technology services, and infotainment to both consumers and businesses.

They have strategic investments in regional mobile operators – Telkomsel (Indonesia), Globe Telecom (the Philippines), Advanced Info Service (Thailand) and Bharti Airtel (India), which has a significant presence in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Africa.

Technology continues to reshape how we live and the company is proud to be nurturing talents for the digital economy. Here’s your chance to be part of an exciting traineeship with an opportunity to acquire professional and soft skills.

Job Qualifications

They are looking for young people with a passion to create a better future with technology, and the potential to influence others to do the same.

Degree in Business Administration or equivalent
Ability to manage complex projects, multi-task, be proactive, and handle uncertainty
Translate complex solutions and requirements to simple, easy-to-understand terms and actionable solutions
Multitask, handle projects from end-to-end with minimal guidance

Key Responsibilities

SME Engagement

– Identify and reach out to potential SME customers for the Digital Hub program.

– Provide advice on relevant digital solutions/ resources to address SME customers’ enquiries/ challenges. Educating and training SME customers on relevant solutions.

– Handhold and manage SME customers during the implementation process.

Business Development

– Conduct research in identified verticals to identify new prospects, evaluate SME potential digital solution gaps and recommend suitable solutions accordingly.

– Identify suitable vertical solutions by keeping abreast of the current industry trends and offerings in the market.

– Achieve set business targets by developing new businesses and seeing through the adoption of digital solutions by SME customers.

– Develop value propositions and conduct presentations to prospects.

Project Management

– Guide and assist customers through the implementation of digital solutions within the stipulated timeline and resources.

– Analyze data based on usage and digital solutions embraced by customers. Ensure customer satisfaction – sustainability in meeting their needs.

How to apply?

Submit your application to Rebecca Chan via this link.

View the job post in full here.

#3: Parkway Dental Practice – Sales & Marketing Associate #SGUnitedTraineeships

Image Credits: AsiaOne

Allowance / Remuneration: S$800 – 2,400 monthly

Parkway Dental is a group dental practice located at Pacific Plaza, within walking distance from Orchard MRT Station. Their team of experienced specialists and dentists is dedicated to providing the public with value and quality care.

Job Qualifications

Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident; and
Graduated in 2019 or graduating in 2020 from ITEs, polytechnics, universities, or other educational institutions (e.g. private universities and overseas institutions); or
Graduated earlier from above institutions and completed National Service in 2019 or 2020.

Key Responsibilities

Coordinate with patients on the treatment plan
Management of the company’s social media platforms (e.g Facebook, Instagram) and website
Creating a positive opinion of the company to a public audience through social media
Evaluate social trends so as to improve the brand’s current presence online
Brainstorming ideas on how to improve public opinion of the company
Use of online analytics tools to ensure that advertisements are targeted at the right audience

By the end of the traineeship, you should be able to:

Communicate with customers confidently with regards to their industry-specific inquiries
Use online analytics tools to improve the company’s advertisement reach-out rate
Catch social trends with ease

How to apply?

Submit your application to Christina / Aggie via this link.

View the job post in full here.

#SGUnitedTraineeships

For those keen in #SGUnitedTraineeships, Black Market Camera also has two recent openings.

They are predominantly in the business of the distribution, sale, and rental of photographic, video equipment, and accessories. They are continuously expanding their range of products and have ventured into a greater range of electronic products including drones (DJI, Yuneec), electronic stabilisers (DJI OSMO, gyro stabilisers for mobile phones and actions cameras), etc.

Click through the links to view more:

All the best for your application(s)!

Singapore sees a shift in mode of transport with more people cycling and buying bicycles

In line with Singapore’s aim to develop its cycling infrastructure as part of a car-lite city, our country is seeing a shift in the mode of transport with more people cycling and buying bicycles. Are you part of the trend?

Bike-sharing operator: Anywheel

Image Credits: Anywheel

According to Anywheel’s chief executive Htay Aung, there was a 68 per cent rise in ridership in January compared to the previous month, a 25 per cent increase in February and 20 per cent in March.

While ridership fell by about 23 per cent during the circuit breaker, demand has since sprung back up, with a 39 per cent increase between June and July, he added.

“We believe that the significant increase in ridership is mainly due to our growing fleet size as well as the shift in preference in (the) mode of transport as members of the public are practising social responsibility by avoiding crowded areas during peak hours due to COVID-19,” said Mr Htay.

In July, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) granted Anywheel approval to expand its fleet from 10,000 to 15,000 bicycles.

“Based on our trip data collected during this outbreak, our bicycles have been proven to be an alternative mode of first- and last-mile transportation and have the ability to replace short trips between one to two MRT stations or several bus stops,” noting that the trend is likely to continue.

Largest player in Singapore’s bike-sharing market: SG Bike

Image Credits SG Bike

SG Bike marketing director Benjamin Oh said, “There is an increasing number of users using our bicycles as a means of outdoor exercise and activities.”

Mr Oh is referring to an increased usage around neighbourhoods and outdoor parks such as along East Coast Park, Gardens by the Bay, and the Marina Bay area.

“Following the PMD ban and COVID-19 circuit breaker, we have continuously been working together with foodpanda to provide their riders to use our bicycles,” he said, adding that riders who work for other delivery companies also use their bicycles.

Compared to Anywheel’s fleet of 15,000 bicycles, SG Bike operates a fleet of 25,000 bicycles in Singapore.

A rise in business for the bicycle industry

Image Credits: Treknology3

The sale of bicycles and related accessories increased in the first quarter of this year, with 8,740 transactions compared to 5,187 during the same period last year, said OCBC group customer analytics and decisioning head, Donald MacDonald.

For bicycle retailer Treknology3, sales for bicycles, helmets, and lights went up by about 20 to 25 per cent in the last few months. Its marketing and distribution manager Azhar Abdullah believes that the upward trend in cycling is because it allows people to head outdoors while adhering to safe distancing rules at the same time.

But BofA Securities analyst Rafe Jadrosich says that the cycling boom is still in its early stages and there is still a long way to go for the trend to peak.