Did you suddenly shoot to internet stardom last night after uploading a viral Tik Tok video?
I’m guessing the answer is probably no, and if that’s the case then PM Lee wouldn’t be sending you a personal email.
So if you do receive one, do remember that it’s probably #fake:
If You Receive an Email Personally from PM Lee, It’s Fake, So Don’t Reply to It
Our dear Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has taken to Facebook to share a fake email that has been circulating online.
According to PM Lee, the email offers you an update about the COVID-19 situation and asks that you reply with your contributions and thoughts regarding the situation.
He asks that those who receive the email not respond to it because obviously, PM Lee’s too busy fighting the coronavirus to be able to craft personal emails to everyone.
He also asks that you do not reveal any private information about yourself or forward it to friends and family.
In his post, PM Lee says, “A fake email that purports to come from me is circulating online. The email gives an update on the COVID-19 situation and encourages them to respond with their contributions and thoughts to the situation.
If you receive such an email, do not respond to it. Also do not provide any personal information. And please do not forward it to your friends and family.”
Police Report Has Been Made
PM Lee has since lodged a police report with the Singapore Police Force regarding the incident.
He also describes these scammers who are behind the email as “unscrupulous characters” who are trying to take advantage of the crisis that is the coronavirus outbreak in order to fool you.
In the end, he reminds Singaporeans to be cautious and to “stay safe online”.
The Fake Email
The fake email claims to be written by PM Lee, and is even titled “Letter from Lee Hsien Loong”.
It is reported written “on behalf of the Singaporean Government” and offers updates on the coronavirus situation.
Mostly, it reassures Singaporeans that the authorities are doing all that they can during this trying time.
While the written language is almost flawless, which is uncharacteristic of most scam emails and messages, we did spot an error.
The fake email says: “We recognize that this is a challenging period globally and we remain deeply committed to the safety and welfare of Singaporean’s, that’s while we took the initiative to introduce….”
Probably not a mistake the real PM Lee would make.
That said, remember to stay cautious and do not fall prey to scams, especially during this vulnerable period.
