By Cheryl Chia

HERE is a look at some scams that have made the news recently:

"We have kidnapped your grandson."

Kidnap scam: Mandarin-speaking conmen would usually target senior citizens and claim that the victim's grandchild had been kidnapped, and that only a huge sum of money could ensure the grandchild's safety.

Some victims would transfer the ransom to the "kidnappers" when, in reality, no one had been kidnapped.

"You have won a prize!"

Prize scam:Victims receive a phone call from a Mandarin- speaking individual informing them they have won either a luxury car or the lottery. An immediate transfer of funds was needed for "administrative purposes".

"You missed your court date."

Court scam: Victims would receive a call from a well-spoken individual with a Chinese accent claiming to be from the Supreme Court, informing them that they had missed a court hearing and needed to transfer some money to the conman's account for "official use".

"Help us to help you."

Nigerian scam: An African "official" writes an e-mail message requesting help to "unfreeze" a late government official's millions and promising a cut for the victim if they transfer funds to cover some administrative expenses.

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