A loan can come from a genuine licensed moneylender while a separate person asking for the proceeds is a scammer. Checking the lender is essential, but it does not automatically verify everyone claiming to work with that business.

In its 16 July 2025 loan-scam advisory, the Singapore Police Force described scammers claiming to be a branch or business partner of legitimate lenders. Some victims were directed to borrow from those lenders and transfer the money to the scammer.

A fictional example: Daniel pauses before paying

Daniel receives a message from someone claiming to arrange a loan. The person tells him to borrow from a licensed moneylender first, then transfer the proceeds to a separate account to unlock another promised loan.

Daniel checks that the lender exists. That answers one question: is the lending business genuine? It does not answer another: is the person sending payment instructions authorised to represent it?

Before transferring anything, Daniel stops and independently contacts the lender through its verified website. He does not use the contact link supplied by the stranger.

This illustration is not an HHL customer case or an offer of credit.

Three checks before moving money

1. Verify independently. Use the Registry’s licensed-moneylender list to check the website and approved premises. A copied logo or familiar business name is not enough.
2. Question the recipient. If someone claims a connection with your lender, verify that claim directly before following their instructions. Do not transfer money to unknown people to secure a loan.
3. Separate the transactions. Read your actual contract and understand who you owe. A stranger’s promise of another loan should not replace that check.

The Registry requires physical face-to-face identity verification at the approved place of business before a licensed moneylender grants a loan. A fully online loan transaction is disallowed. That safeguard does not authenticate a separate intermediary contacting you afterwards.

Already transferred money?

ScamShield’s response guidance advises contacting your bank immediately, filing a police report and securing compromised accounts. Keep relevant messages and payment records for the report. If unsure whether something is a scam, call the 24-hour ScamShield helpline, 1799.

Reporting a scam does not itself cancel your loan contract. Contact your lender promptly about your account; do not assume repayments have stopped. The Registry’s borrowing FAQs explain borrowers’ contractual obligations.

FAQs

Does a real loan prove the intermediary is genuine?

No. Verify the intermediary’s claimed connection independently before sending money.

Is every administrative fee a scam?

No. The Registry permits an upfront loan-approval deduction of up to 10% of principal. This differs from sending money to a stranger to unlock a promised loan. That cap is not an HHL fee quotation.

Will reporting guarantee my money comes back?

No. Recovery depends on the circumstances. Act promptly without relying on a promised refund.

Questions about your HHL loan?

Visit the official HHL Credit website for account enquiries. For contract terminology, see our Singapore loan glossary.