Loan sharks, a.k.a. illegal moneylenders are still a major problem in the Singapore financial system. They frequently target the week and trap them with high interest rates. However, you may protect yourself from becoming a target of loan sharks and their fraudulent actions by being aware of warning signals and preventive measures. In this blog, we will discuss the warning signs and preventive measures that help you deal with loan sharks in Singapore.
Warning Sign #1: Advertisement or Unwanted Approach
When someone approaches you without your consent or uses illegal methods to advertise their services, that is one of the first indicators that they are a loan shark. It is against the law for professional moneylenders to cold call, message, and email prospective clients.
Protective Measure
Always research licensed moneylenders and refer to the official registry maintained by the Ministry of Law in Singapore. Before doing business with any moneylender, make sure to confirm their license number and look up any complaints or negative reviews.
Warning Sign #2: Urgency and High Pressure Strategies
Loan sharks often use high-pressure strategies to force people into making a quick decision. They basically avoid credit check, easily access quick financing and approvals. Moreover, they frequently use urgency as a misleading tactic to convince potential customers to agree to their conditions without giving them useful insights. Such strategies should raise suspicion because they are frequently used by unauthorized moneylenders to take advantage of weak people.
Protective Measure
Avoid making quick decisions. Carefully analyze all loan terms and conditions, including interest rates, repayment terms, and any other costs. Compare multiple offers from different lenders and choose the one that best meets your needs. Before signing any loan agreement, make sure you have a strong decision from a reputable professional for financing.
Warning Sign #3: Insufficient Official Records
Loan sharks sometimes operate with little to no documentation and ultimately keep their consumers in danger. It is legally required of licensed moneylenders to give their clients appropriate loan contracts and supporting documentation that include all relevant terms and conditions. It’s an indicator that a lender is operating illegally if they refuse to offer detailed documentation or just accept verbal agreements.
Protective Measure
Never take a loan without getting the necessary documentation, including a contract or a repayment schedule. Make sure that all the terms and conditions are clearly written in detail, including interest rates, penalties for late payments, and any other hidden costs. Before signing any agreement, read over every clause and save copies of all documents in case there are any questions later on.
Warning Sign #4: Threats and Harassment
Threats and harassment are common methods used by loan sharks in Singapore to collect repayments. They might even turn to physical assault, damage property, or use abusive language. It is important to act quickly to defend yourself and get legal counsel if you are facing constant harassment or threats regarding unpaid loans.
Protective Measure
Contact the police if you experience any threats or harassment. Save any evidence you have, like text messages, phone conversations, or damaged property. This evidence may be necessary for the authorities to use it against the loan sharks. Remember that licensed money lenders follow the law and don’t do these kinds of things.
Warning Sign #5: High Interest Rate and Hidden Cost
Loan sharks often impose high interest rates well above the legal limit of 4% per month. They could also take advantage of people by charging extra fees and hidden expenses. Lenders who offer interest-free loans or extremely low repayment conditions should be avoided since they frequently use these tactics to trick consumers into agreeing to terms in the future.
Protective Measure
Become familiar with the interest rates and legal lending limitations set by the Ministry of Law in Singapore. These rules must be followed by licensed moneylenders. To be sure you are getting a fair deal, compare the interest rates and repayment terms provided by different moneylenders. Before signing, make sure you have carefully read the loan agreement and get clarification on any unclear terms.
Loan Sharks in Singapore – Endnote
In Singapore, loan sharks continue to be an ongoing issue since they depend on people who are weak through illegal lending practices. You can prevent yourself from being a victim of loan sharks in Singapore by being aware of their clear signs and taking the preventive measures that are mentioned above in this blog.
Always deal with licensed moneylenders and inform authorities of any suspicious or illegal activity. Be aware of how much money you have and make wise decisions when you need financial support to protect your financial health.