Carousell to combat online fraud and scams via tie-up with GovTech

Carousell has partnered with Government Technology Agency (GovTech) to launch online identity verification feature for users, a way to combat the increasing number of fraud and scams. This new feature enables the verification of user profiles via MyInfo, allowing users to deal with authenticated accounts.The option to verify and authenticate Carousell profiles with MyInfo data can be enabled by one’s SingPass account via the app. This then provides users on Carousell with a verified badge on their profile. According to Carousell, the verification process also allows the team to step in and assist with investigations more effectively, should an issue arise.To protect Carousell users’ data privacy, the online marketplace will not have access to a citizen’s or resident’s NRIC number. The moves comes as Carousell’s latest initiative in building a safe and conducive platform for users, following its introduction of digital fingerprinting and the transition to a star-rating system for users.Su Lin Tan, vice president of operations, Carousell said through this partnership with GovTech, the online marketplace aims for the marketplace sector to leverage Singapore’s National Digital Identity platform to further improve the eCommerce experience for users.“Ensuring that our users can buy and sell with peace of mind is one of our top priorities. We are grateful to have the support of GovTech in rolling out this feature to enhance the level of user accountability. Fraud and scams are an industry-wide challenge, and creating a layer of accountability and trust is one step in addressing the issue,” she added.Kwok Quek Sin, senior director, National Digital Identity, GovTech said digital transactions are now commonplace, and therefore is crucial for businesses to offer higher levels of assurance for users transacting on their platforms. “Carousell’s integration of MyInfo offers a trusted and secure way to prove identities online and minimise identity fraud risk. We will continue to work with more industry partners to build a robust and trusted online ecosystem,” he added.Last year, the Singapore Police Force said that eCommerce scams on Carousell saw a 136% rise in the first half of this year. According to an article on Channel NewsAsia, there were a total of 1,020 cases between January and June 2018, involving transactions such as tickets to events and attractions in Singapore.