Singapore’s sweltering heat can feel relentless, especially during peak midday hours when the sun bears down like a spotlight. While we can’t control the weather, we can certainly control how we respond to it. If you’re feeling drained, sticky, or just plain irritable, it’s time to hit reset. Here are six soothing and surprisingly simple ways to beat the heat and stay cool – both inside and out. 

1. Chill Out with a Spa Massage

There’s nothing quite like stepping into an air-conditioned sanctuary and surrendering to the skilled hands of a masseuse. A massage not only relaxes tense muscles but also helps to lower your core temperature. Many spas offer cooling essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus, which give an instant hit of icy freshness to your skin and senses. Whether it’s a Swedish massage or foot reflexology, a mid-day spa escape might just be the relief your body needs. 

Special Deal: Pop into The Spa by The Ultimate located at SAFRA Punggol for a soothing 60-min Signature Body Massage at just $88 (U.P. $130.80) by using your LifeSG Credits. Want a more prolonged indulgence? Simply upgrade to a 90-min massage by quoting “NSLIFESG” 

Savings: $42.80 

Click here for more information.

2. Get a Fresh Cut

When temperatures rise, long, heavy hair can feel like an unwanted blanket. Heading to the salon for a trim or even a bold new look can be liberating. Shorter styles allow for better airflow, while a good wash and blow-dry cools the scalp and lifts the spirit. Pro tip: some salons offer head spa treatments that include a cooling scalp massage, leaving you fresh, revived and heatwave-ready. 

SAFRA Members’ Perk: Get a cool Korean-style haircut at kcuts, located at SAFRA Toa Payoh, for just $12. Present your SAFRA card for an exclusive kcuts SAFRA loyalty card. Receive a stamp for each visit and redeem 1 free haircut with 10 stamps accumulated. 

Savings: $12 

Click here for more information.

3. Surround Yourself with Flowers

It might seem counterintuitive, but adding flowers to your home or workspace can make the heat feel less oppressive. Fresh blooms like lilies, orchids, or eucalyptus not only brighten the environment visually but often emit natural fragrances that evoke a sense of calm. Greenery also cools the space psychologically – nature has a way of reminding us to slow down and breathe, even when the sun is unrelenting. 

SAFRA Members’ Perk: Add calm and colour to your personal space at home or at work by displaying fresh flowers from AngelFlorist (SAFRA members get 20% off with minimum $100 spent) or FarEastFlora.com (SAFRA members receive 20% off with minimum $60 spent). 

Savings: At least $12 

Click here and here for more information.

4. Dress to Decompress

When it comes to clothing, the rule is simple: the looser, the better. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking blends in lighter colours to reflect heat. Avoid synthetics and tight fits that trap heat and sweat. Flowy dresses, linen shirts, and relaxed activewear are your best friends on hot days – fashionable and functional for surviving the urban summer. 

SAFRA Members’ Perk: Stay comfortable yet stylish by picking clothing made from innovative fabrics which are designed to keep you cool throughout the day. G2000’s TECHWORK series is perfect for daily workwear and casual wear during weekends as it is designed with moisture-wicking, anti-odour, and wrinkle-free materials to combine comfort, functionality and style. SAFRA members can enjoy 10% off regular-priced items with minimum $100 spent. 

Savings: At least $10 

Click here for more information.

5. Hydrate Like It’s a Full-Time Job

It’s the most basic tip and still the most important. Drinking enough water helps regulate your body temperature, supports skin health, and boosts energy. Add slices of cucumber, lemon or mint for an extra refreshing twist. If plain water feels boring, try coconut water or herbal teas (served cold, of course). Keep a reusable bottle on hand as your stylish, sustainable sidekick. 

SAFRA Members’ Perk: Get your daily dose of hydration met by drinking up clean and purified water dispensed from well-established water purifier brand from Korea, RUHENS. SAFRA members receive $339 off RuhensV or $700 off the more premium Ruhens Ice. 

Savings: From $339, up to $700 

Click here for more information.

6. Go for a Dip in the Pool

Sometimes, the best way to cool off is to just dive in. A swim offers instant relief from the heat and doubles as a low-impact workout that gets your whole body moving. Whether you’re doing laps or simply lounging in the water, the sensation of being submerged is like a reset button for your entire system. If you’re a SAFRA member, don’t forget you have access to well-maintained club pools – so why not take advantage and splash your way to serenity? 

SAFRA Members’ Perk: Keep cool by going for a swim in SAFRA’s swimming pools, which all SAFRA members can access for FREE. 

Savings: At least $9.20 each month if you visit the pools once a week 

Click here for more information. 

Total Savings In One Month: At least $425! 

Not yet a member? Sign up at m.safra or the SAFRA mobile app, or visit our membership sign-up page on the website now! 

Final Thought: Stay Cool, Stay You 

Beating the heat isn’t just about physical comfort – it’s about creating space for self-care. Whether you treat yourself to a massage, refresh your look, or sip iced water under a fan of green leaves, keeping cool is as much a state of mind as it is a temperature. 

This hot and humid season, don’t just sweat through it. Find small joys in the heat, and let coolness – literal and emotional – become part of your daily ritual. 

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post Cool Moves: 6 Refreshing Ways to Beat the Heat appeared first on eNSMAN.

The Staytion Lifestyle Centre situated at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station was launched in July 2024, offering a convenient way for commuters to enjoy pockets of respite and make essential pit-stops during their journey.

It sounded very much like airport lounge to me and was wondering how one at the train station will look like. It is also a much-needed option since I am a writer who works on the go. I need good spaces to let my creative juices flow and put pen to paper.

SAFRA members enjoy complimentary access:

• Lounge use at Dhoby Ghaut for an hour. First 1,000 only.
• 1-day pass for Staytion Spaces located at other MRT stations: Paya Lebar, Marsiling – and Dhoby Ghaut (again) too! First 500 only.

Simply download the SAFRA mobile app, go to ‘eVouchers’ and tap on wallet to access your vouchers. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/Staytion-spaces

A one-stop lifestyle hub for the busy commuter

I decided to give it a try. I stepped out of the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station turnstiles, and after a short walk within the station, I found myself greeted by an area tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the Dhoby Ghaut MRT. There is an array of essential services such as a lounge as well as a plethora of food and beverage options. 

I settled down to do some work at the Staytion Lounge, a comfortable versatile space that is only made better with free-flow refreshments. It was easy to find a charging port, and I quickly connected to the complimentary Wi-Fi. The lounge’s open concept has a calming ambience that is great for people watching or focused on productivity.

It was such an enjoyable experience getting my work done here that I decided on the spot to sign up for the Staytion Spaces Membership (applicable to Lite and Lite+ only), , enjoying 50% off as a SAFRA member. Guess you’ll be seeing me here a lot more often in future!

It was time for lunch, and I checked out the various F&B options.

Saladstop

A contemporary salad pitstop for the health-conscious diner. I picked the Game Changer bowl, which is packed with my choice of protein alongside a generous portion of fresh greens including edamame, cherry tomatoes and mixed seeds. It was a filling and satisfying lunch!

I enjoyed 10% off the total bill as a SAFRA member.

Takagi Ramen

I was happy to see a Takagi Ramen outlet here as I’m a fan of their affordable and generously-portioned bowls of ramen. I made a mental note to come back for its Chilli Crab Ramen soon (which I did a week after)! 

SAFRA members enjoy 10% off regular-priced items. 

Health and beauty services

Personal health is one of the things that everyone should always stay on top of no matter the cost. Staytion Lifestyle Centre houses various options where you can conveniently get your dose of health screenings and beauty treatments. I decided to treat myself a little better, and booked a Health Screening Package for my next visit to Staytion.

Book an Exclusive Health Screening Package by Alliance Medical Centre at a price of $400 or get yourself a Collagen Stimulating Laser Session at Evoque Medical Aesthetics for only $50 (inclusive of doctor’s consultation and 3D Facial Analysis) 

With Staytion Lifestyle Centre’s location in Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station, not only does it make a convenient pitstop in the middle of a workday, it’s also a great recreational spot to visit after work or even on weekends!

For more information, visit safra.sg/promotions/staytion-dhobyghaut

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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The March school holidays are just around the corner, which means more time to spend together as a family. And there are many ways to enjoy the break, especially if you’re a SAFRA member, thanks to privileges ranging from discounts to freebies. 

These 7 value-for-money ideas are perfect for families that love getting out and about, having fun, and being physically active. 

Explore Canopy Park at Jewel Changi Airport

Not just for travellers, Jewel Changi Airport has drawn thousands of local visitors since opening in 2019. In addition to the massive indoor waterfall, Rain Vortex, its main attractions include world-class restaurants and stores. Families also love Jewel for its nature-themed entertainment options, like Canopy Park, located at the topmost level (Level 5) of Jewel. The 14,000 sq m recreational wonderland features an array of exciting play attractions, including the leafy playscape, Hedge Maze; Bouncing Net, which lets you feel like you’re bouncing among trees; and Foggy Bowls, a unique arena for kids that lets them play amongst the clouds. You can also stroll along creative garden trails and glide down giant slides. 

SAFRA members enjoy 10% off Canopy Park attraction tickets. Your ticket includes complimentary admission to Canopy Park and a 10% discount on your entry into Mastercard Canopy Bridge, Hedge Maze, Mirror Maze, Bouncing Net, and Walking Net. More info at safra.sg/promotions/jewel-changi-airport-2

Get into an aerial dogfight

Have you and your kids ever wondered what it might be like to pilot a fighter aircraft and engage in a close-range air battle with enemy fighter planes? Bring them along to Air Combat, a virtual reality experience located at Mount Faber. This state-of-the-art adventure transports participants into the cockpit of a high-performance fighter jet, giving them a sense of exhilaration as they soar through realistic skyscapes through six different movements.

SAFRA members get 15% off tickets to Air Combat. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/air-combat

Try pickleball

Pickleball, a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, table tennis and badminton, is fast gaining popularity. The game includes two players (singles) or four players (doubles) and uses a short-handed paddle and a perforated plastic ball. 

Treat the family to some pickleball action at SAFRA Mount Faber, Jurong, Tampines, or Yishun. Their pickleball courts are the perfect place to try the game together and practise your hits. 

SAFRA members who book a pickleball court enjoy complimentary rental of pickleball equipment. Get more information at safra.sg/promotions/play-pickleball-at-safra

Watch our pickleball video and find out how to get started!

Have fun at an indoor playground

Located at Temasek Club at Rifle Range Road, De Happy Ark is a colourful indoor playground featuring a variety of play stations for toddlers and young children. The March holidays are a good time to get your children and their friends together for some group fun. They’ll love playing on the 3m-tall spiral slide complete with maze and foam pits. If you have an infant, check out the dedicated nook with a selection of baby-safe toys. While the little ones explore, the adults can catch up with one another over a bite or a cuppa.

SAFRA members enjoy special rates at De Happy Ark, starting from $55+ per hour for 10 people. For more information and booking instructions, go to temasekclub.org.sg/our-offers/our-amenities/social-amenities/de-happy-ark 

Take a swing

The National Service Resort & Country Club (NSRCC) provides a tranquil escape for NSmen who have performed National Service, as well as full-time NSmen. Located along the tranquil east coast, the club sits on 120 ha of lush greenery and offers a picturesque sea view. Golfers can look forward to an 18-hole course and a temporary 36-bay driving range. Other facilities include swimming pools, a fitness centre, billiards room, tennis and squash courts as well as basketball and street-soccer courts. There are also dining options for a quick snack or a leisurely meal.

NSRCC offers exclusive rates for SAFRA members who want to play golf and use the facilities. Make it a special and fun family day out!

Day membership at NSRCC starts at $5.45. To find out more about this and the other privileges you can enjoy as a SAFRA member, click on safra.sg/promotions/benefits-at-other-establishments

Why not enjoy a staycation at NSRCC as well? Here are 6 reasons why you should book a NSRCC holiday bungalow now!

Bake up a storm with the kids

Get your little bakers together for an afternoon of mixing and kneading. Genius R Us offers baking workshops at SAFRA Punggol, inviting parents to participate with their child as a pair. Children aged five to 12 years old can also take part in the workshops independently. Besides hands-on experience, you’ll leave the workshop with your very own baked masterpiece.

Workshops are conducted at the Culinary Experience Studio at SAFRA Punggol, Level 1. 

SAFRA members enjoy special rates on baking workshops. Go to safra.sg/whats-on/baking-workshops-with-genius-r-us-2025 for more details. 

Check out the Total Defence showcase

Learn more about the six pillars of Total Defence at the Singapore Discovery Centre’s exhibition showcase, on till the end of April. Activities include Salute Singapaw!, where visitors can get creative and help SingaPaw “dress up” in the different No. 4 uniforms of the Singapore Armed Forces; the self-guided trail, Guardians of the Nation; and Defenders’ Pledge, where you can snap a photo with the defenders’ avatar pop-ups and make your pledge to defend the nation.

Admission to the exhibition is free. 

Click on defencecollectivesg.com/total-defence-2025-sdc for additional information.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post School’s Out, Fun’s About! – Where To Go & What To Do This March 2025 School Holidays appeared first on eNSMAN.

In a multicultural, multi-racial society like ours, peace is possible only if we get along and look after one another. This harmony should not be taken for granted, as it is what keeps us strong and united, especially during times of national challenges. Maintaining it is a constant effort. 

This is Social Defence, one of the six “pillars” of Singapore’s Total Defence strategy, a national defence concept that was introduced in 1984 to empower Singaporeans to respond cohesively and purposefully to security challenges. 

There are many ways to put Social Defence into action. This includes being sensitive towards people of other races in Singapore, befriending fellow citizens from other communities, helping new citizens integrate into our society, and finding ways to support the less privileged. 

Here are six ideas to help you get started.  

1. Grow your cultural awareness

Singapore is made up of numerous ethnicities, religions and languages. This diversity is what makes our country unique and strong. Most of us have friends, colleagues and neighbours who are of a different ethnicity from us; they may also speak a different language or practise a different religion. In our multicultural society, it’s important to appreciate their customs, beliefs and values, as this helps to break down cultural barriers and build cultural bridges. It makes it easier for us to interact with our fellow citizens with respect and without judgment. 

One of the best ways to expand your cultural awareness is to spend time with people from different cultural backgrounds, learning about their traditions, experiences, languages and perspectives. You can also attend cultural events and festivals, try foods from various parts of the world, and read books and watch documentaries about other cultures. Above all, remember to ask questions respectfully, avoid making assumptions, and challenge any prejudices you may have about people from other cultures. 

3. Make friends outside your community

Strengthening community ties fosters a sense of belonging, purpose and identity; builds trust; encourages collaboration; empowers groups to face challenges and find solutions together; enhances social support networks; and helps people who may be experiencing loneliness and isolation. All of these are important to improving the social and emotional wellbeing of our community and thus, bolstering Singapore’s social defence.

How can you build and strengthen relationships within your community? Some ideas include organising or attending community gatherings, getting involved in local or grassroots events, supporting local businesses, engaging with community leaders, and spending time with your neighbours. 

Need more ideas? Here are 5 other ways you can give back to the community.

3. Welcome new citizens

The National Integration Council (NIC) was set up in April 2009 to help new citizens adapt to the Singaporean way of life. It does this through initiatives that allow new citizens to better understand our culture and norms. 

You, too, can do your part to help new citizens adapt and feel like they belong here. For instance, you could start or join interest groups that aim to integrate them; teach them about our history by taking them to a museum or giving them a walking tour through the different neighbourhoods; introduce them to our local cuisine; and make yourself available to them if they need help after settling here.   

Welcoming your foreign-born friends and colleagues not only makes them feel good about living in their new country, it also builds a shared sense of community.

4. Help migrant workers

Migrant workers, such as those who work in the construction, manufacturing and hospitality industries and domestic helpers, are crucial to our nation-building, and they deserve our respect, support and assistance, too. 

Many migrant workers face challenges while living in Singapore – for example, they deal with language barriers and may have limited access to healthcare and social services. But there are many ways you can support them and help them integrate into our society.  

One way to make a difference is by donating money, food, clothes and medical supplies to organisations that assist migrant workers. If you prefer taking a more personal approach, you can volunteer at these organisations by helping migrant workers overcome language barriers, distributing food and other items, or spending time with them and offering them companionship and emotional support.  

5. Look out for the less fortunate

It’s important not to let those who are less fortunate fall behind. Progress can only happen if every one of us makes it a point to look after vulnerable members of our society. 

In addition to donating to local charities or non-profit organisations, you can help the underprivileged by mentoring or giving tuition to children from low-income families; cooking for older neighbours who struggle to look after themselves; volunteering for fundraising events; preparing food donations; helping the unemployed find work; teaching computer literacy to people who have no access to tech devices; and sharing your skills and services with those who need them.  

Read on for tips on how you can give back to the community together and grow closer as a family.

6. Support neighbours in crisis

If you know a neighbour who is going through an emergency or crisis – they may have recently lost a loved one, have mental health issues, are experiencing domestic violence, or have just been diagnosed with a serious illness, for instance – offer to help them. 

Depending on their situation, they may need assistance accessing welfare and social services or require additional support from healthcare professionals. 

Knowing that there are people out there who will listen to them in a non-judgemental way, empathise with them and express compassion for what they’re going through, is not only reassuring; it also encourages them to be more resilient, empowers them to take better care of themselves, and helps them feel that they are not alone.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

The post How To Build Bonds & Strengthen Ties With The Community appeared first on eNSMAN.

Forget crowded restaurants and overpriced experiences. In our latest instalment of free and affordable date ideas, we let you in on hidden gems around Singapore where you can create special memories without breaking the bank. Don’t miss the places with extra savings for SAFRA members!

1. Yishun Dam

Apart from groups of uncles, cyclists en route to various park connectors, and the occasional fishing or photography enthusiast, not many consider Yishun Dam a hangout. But these folk are precisely the ones in the know. Dividing Lower Seletar Reservoir from the Johor Strait, it offers panoramic views from every angle. The freshwater side also boasts diverse flora and fauna along Rower’s Bay Park’s tranquil boardwalk.

Yishun Dam is perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset, spotting birds or planes (from Seletar Airport), moon and stargazing, or just a romantic stroll. You can even pack a picnic and pick your choice of surface, from rocky inclines and grassy patches to sandy shores or simply the concrete deck of the dam itself, to settle on. Feel free to bring a portable barbecue set and camping chairs – just be sure not to leave anything behind!

Or find sustenance at SAFRA Yishun just minutes away. SAFRA members enjoy 10% off at Springleaf Prata Place and Eatzi Gourmet Steakhouse & Bistro; more info at safra.sg/amenities-offerings/springleaf-prata-place & safra.sg/promotions/eatzi-gourmet-steakhouse-bistro

Yishun Avenue 1

2. Boh Geh Uncle Canteen

For a change of scenery on your next brunch date, search out Boh Geh Uncle Canteen. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Piccadilly, this rustic eatery boasts a unique charm, reminiscent of a traditional kampung setting. It was apparently once part of nearby Seletar Camp, so for those who may have served there, it might be extra nostalgic and fun to share a meal at this ‘cookhouse’ with your bae!

Forget fancy tablecloths and eggs benedict; here, it’s about the simple pleasures. Order a plate of nasi padang or cai png and wash it all down with your favourite kopitiam beverages – all at canteen-worthy prices. To be honest, it’s not about the food. What Boh Geh Uncle Canteen offers is a laid-back, no-frills atmosphere that encourages genuine connection while experiencing a slice of old Singapore.

If the lack of air-conditioning is a deal breaker, dine at YOUNGS Restaurant & Bar at Seletar Aerospace Park nearby, where SAFRA members and servicemen enjoy 10% off the a la carte menu. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/youngs-bar-restaurant

398 Piccadilly

3. Raffles Marina Lighthouse

Did you know that there’s a photogenic 12m-high lighthouse overlooking the Tuas Second Link? The Raffles Marina Lighthouse, sometimes called the Johor Strait Lighthouse for obvious reasons, is perched at the end of the pier within Raffles Marina Club. This isn’t just a pretty backdrop, mind you. The working lighthouse serves as a navigational beacon, guiding vessels safely in and out of the marina.

Imagine strolling hand-in-hand along the pier, the beam of the lighthouse sweeping across the water every 10 seconds, casting a romantic glow broken only by yachts bobbing gently in the harbour. The panoramic views, extending across to Forest City in Johor, offer breathtaking sunset vistas. It’s the perfect pre-dinner activity before enjoying a meal at the al-fresco Marina Bistro, where you can continue to take in that view.

If you need a ride out there, why not consider renting a car for the day? SAFRA members enjoy 30% off at ComfortDelGro Rent-A-Car; more info at safra.sg/promotions/comfortdelgro-rent-a-car

10 Tuas West Drive

4. Changi Chapel & Museum

For a date that’s more meaningful than most, consider going off the beaten path to the quietly romantic Changi Chapel and Museum. The historic site tells the poignant stories of the prisoners of war and civilians interned in Changi prison camp during the Japanese Occupation. While the intimate setting encourages sombre reflection, it also highlights the strength of the human spirit, offering a perspective that can enrich your own relationship. 

There’s no better time than now to visit, during the National Heritage Board’s annual Battle for Singapore event, on till 2 March 2025. Commemorating the 83rd anniversary of the Fall of Singapore, programmes include special exhibits and guided tours at Changi Chapel and Museum and other key WWII sites. Afterwards, discuss your reflections over bistro favourites in the relaxed al-fresco setting of The Bark Cafe.

For more dining options, walk over to Cosford Container Park down the road, where SAFRA members enjoy up to 20% off the subtotal bill; more info at safra.sg/promotions/cosford-container-park

1000 Upper Changi Road North; Tel: 6242 6033

5. (Hidden) Tanjong Pagar

A hybrid of cutting-edge skyscrapers and old-world Chinatown vibes, Tanjong Pagar offers a blend of heritage, culture and vibrant energy. To start your date, fuel up for adventure with a delicious and affordable breakfast at Maxwell Food Centre. Then wander hand-in-hand, discovering a visual feast of street art in unexpected alleyways and exploring beautifully preserved shophouses, temples and even a rickshaw depot circa 1903.

As evening approaches, neon glow and kimchi aromas take hold. Find your Seoul-food around ‘Korean Town’, or delve into pulsating nightlife along Club Street. Up the ante by teaming up on an outdoor ‘escape room’ experience with Hidden SG, at $29.90 per person. Guided by the enigmatic Void Deck Cat, you’ll solve puzzles and uncover hidden gems in Tanjong Pagar that are said to have charmed celebrities and royalty alike.

SAFRA members enjoy up to 10% off when booking your Hidden SG experience via Klook; more info at safra.sg/promotions/klook-sg

Various locations

6. 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace

Once the address of the Pearl’s Hill Upper Barracks, a bomb-proof bunker that served as the nerve centre for police communications both before and after WWII, 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace currently houses a vibrant indie arts enclave. But with its lease set to expire in March 2026, 195 PHT is an endangered species. So visit it while you still can, especially since the blend of vintage vibes and creative charm sets the stage for a fun day-to-night date.

Immerse yourselves in the eclectic mix of shops and studios, discovering ceramic treasures and handcrafted jewellery. Try out candle-making workshops and art-jamming sessions. Hungry? Pop into Lavi Taco for its viral Birria Tacos and Balinese Buffalo Wings. As the sun sets, the charming courtyard, or Kult Yard, comes to life with live music and a livelier atmosphere. Don’t miss the cocktails boasting ingredients like belacan and gula melaka!

195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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Threats to our national security may come in many forms, including from the digital domain. The more digitally connected and technologically advanced the world becomes, the greater our vulnerability to cyberattacks, online scams, fake news, and so on. These threats can disrupt our personal safety and way of life, as well as undermine our social cohesion and strike at the confidence and psychological resilience of our people.

This is why we can’t ignore Digital Defence – one of the six “pillars” of Singapore’s Total Defence strategy, which involves the participation of every Singaporean in the collective effort of building a strong, secure and cohesive nation.

The number of scams in Singapore has been growing. According to the Singapore Police Force, victims lost a record high of over $385.6 million in the first six months of 2024 – an increase of 16.3% compared to the same period in 2023. The most common scams included e-commerce scams, phishing scams, investment scams, government official impersonation scams, and loan scams.  

As AI (artificial intelligence) technology becomes more pervasive, we also have to be concerned about AI-generated “deepfakes”, which can trick us into parting with our money or sharing personal or sensitive information with scammers, and which may even threaten our national security.

We asked a cyber-security expert to share some tips for guarding against common digital threats.

1. Be wary of AI deepfakes

“Deepfakes created by AI are a serious concern because they can create highly realistic audio and video content that convincingly mimics real people,” says Nikhil Bhardwaj, Project Manager and Sales Consultant at Cybersafe Pte Ltd. 

Some common manipulation techniques include: 

• Impersonation for fraud: Deepfakes can be used to impersonate trusted figures such as bank officials, company executives, or even family members. This can lead to fraudulent transactions or misinformation campaigns.
• Undermining trust: When video or audio evidence can be fabricated, it becomes increasingly difficult to trust digital communications. This erosion of trust is a major issue for businesses, governments, and personal interactions alike.
• Difficulty in detection: As deepfake technology advances, distinguishing between authentic and manipulated content becomes challenging – even for experts. This increases the risk of successful scams, as victims may be misled by convincing “proof” generated by cybercriminals.

“In short, deepfakes open up new avenues for sophisticated scams that require both advanced detection techniques and public awareness,” Nikhil adds.

AI-generated deepfakes can be hard to detect, but according to the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, there are some ways to tell if the multimedia you’re looking at is real or not: 

• Assess the message: Check its source, context and aim. For instance, is the source trustworthy? Does the content read or behave as expected? And does the message ask you to do something urgently, unsafe, or unusual? 
• Analyse audio-visual elements: Look for inconsistencies or discrepancies in facial features, expression and eye movement, skin texture and tone, background, and audio-video quality. 
• Authenticate the content: Deepfake detection tools for the general consumer are only just emerging. In the meantime, you can look out for tags or watermarks which indicate if the content you’re looking at is AI-generated.

2. Shop safely online

Shopping online is a favourite pastime for many of us, but don’t fall victim to scammers and fraudsters. 

For example, Nikhil says that when you’re browsing an online store, the first indicator of security is the URL – make sure it begins with “https://” (the “s” stands for secure) and that you see the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. 

He says that other red flags include:

• Outdated design and poor functionality: If the site looks unpolished or is riddled with pop-ups and excessive ads, it might not have been maintained with modern security practices.
• Unnecessary information requests: Be cautious if the website asks for more personal or financial information than is typical for the transaction.  

Read on for more tips to avoid online shopping scams.

3. Protect against these scams when banking online

With most of us doing our banking online, it’s important to distinguish between phishing and spamming. Nikhil explains: 

• Phishing: This is a tactic where attackers send fraudulent emails or messages, or even create fake websites that appear to be from trusted institutions – such as your bank – in order to trick you into revealing sensitive data such as login credentials or financial information.
• Spamming: Spamming involves the mass distribution of unsolicited emails or messages, which often serve as a vehicle for phishing attempts or the dissemination of malicious links and attachments.

“In the context of online banking, these methods can be used to impersonate your financial institution. An email might look like it’s coming from your bank, urging you to update your details or verify a transaction – only to direct you to a counterfeit site designed to harvest your credentials,” he adds.

Here are Nikhil’s tips to protect yourself:

• Verify the source: Always double-check the sender’s email address or contact details. If in doubt, contact the institution directly using known, trusted channels.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): This adds an extra layer of security even if your password is compromised.
• Keep software up-to-date: Updated anti-malware and spam filtering tools can help catch suspicious activity before it reaches you.
• Be sceptical: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, and always check for the “https://” prefix and padlock symbol before entering any personal information.

Here are more ways to keep your family safe from online scams.

4. Reinforce security measures on your devices

Protecting your devices is about layering defences, says Nikhil. This can help minimise your exposure to online threats, fraud and scams. 

Here’s what you can do: 

• Keep software updated: Regularly update your operating systems, applications, and antivirus software to patch vulnerabilities.
• Use strong, unique passwords and MFA: Use strong, unique passwords for every account and enable MFA wherever possible.
• Use firewalls and VPNs: Activate built-in firewalls and use reputable VPN services – especially when accessing public Wi-Fi – to safeguard your Internet connection.
• Backup regularly and use encryption: Backup your important data regularly and consider encrypting sensitive files.
• Be cautious with downloads: Only install apps and software from reputable sources to avoid inadvertently introducing malware.

5. Be mindful of what you share on social media

“Social media is an excellent tool for connection, but oversharing can be a gateway for cybercriminals,” Nikhil points out. 

Avoid sharing the following, he says: 

• Personal details: This includes sensitive information such as your home address, phone number, and even your full date of birth. These can be exploited for identity theft.
• Travel plans: Publicly posting vacation plans or travel itineraries can alert potential burglars that your home is unoccupied.
• Financial information: Details about your income, investments, or even hints about your financial status should be kept private.
• Real-time location data: Photos and posts that reveal your current location (especially if geo-tagging is enabled) can put you at risk.
• Work-related confidential information: Oversharing details about your workplace or projects can inadvertently provide a roadmap for targeted attacks.

“By managing your privacy settings and being selective about what you share, you can better protect your personal and financial safety,” Nikhil adds.

6. Keep your non-digitally savvy loved ones safe from online scams

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People who are less familiar with digital environments, including many seniors, can be particularly vulnerable to online scams, Nikhil says. 

Here are some scams they may fall prey to: 

• Phishing emails and scam calls: They might receive emails or phone calls that impersonate government agencies, banks, or even family members, urging them to share sensitive information or transfer funds.
• Tech support scams: Fraudsters often pose as technical support agents, convincing individuals that their devices are infected and persuading them to install malicious software or provide remote access.
• Romance and charity scams: Exploiting emotions, scammers might create elaborate stories on social media or dating sites to build trust and eventually ask for money.
• Fake websites and online ads: Unsophisticated users might not notice subtle discrepancies in website URLs or design, leading them to fraudulent sites that mimic legitimate businesses.

Nikhil shares some ways to mitigate these risks:

• Education and awareness: Regularly educate vulnerable loved ones on common scam tactics. Local community centres or libraries sometimes offer sessions on digital literacy and online safety.
• Simplified security tools: Encourage the use of simplified security applications that can help filter out spam and malicious content.
• Trusted contacts: Advise vulnerable loved ones to verify unsolicited requests by contacting a trusted friend, family member, or the relevant institution directly.

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