At least five business have lost a total of at least $25,000 to fake bulk order scams since April 12, said the police.

The scammers target those in the renovation industry, including renovation contractors, design firms, and suppliers of curtains, blinds, and fabrics.

Posing as “customers”, the scammers contact businesses via call or WhatsApp message to order items in bulk.

They would typically request for additional items that the businesses do not stock, or in quantities that the retailers are unable to fulfil on short notice.