Singaporean Man to be Charged with Hacking After Deportation from Thailand
A 34-year-old Singaporean man, Ong Jian Zhen, has been arrested in Singapore after being deported from Thailand and charged with hacking into multiple NTUC FairPrice and Zalora accounts. The incident took place on Monday, August 25, 2025, when Ong was taken into custody upon his arrival at Changi Airport.
Ong had previously fled Singapore after skipping bail in October 2021, initially facing charges of cheating. He had failed to attend subsequent court hearings and a warrant of arrest was issued against him in September 2022. The police received multiple reports of compromised NTUC FairPrice and Zalora customer accounts between July and November 2022.
The compromised accounts were used to make fraudulent purchases amounting to at least S$25,000 (US$19,400), with Ong allegedly working with at least six other individuals. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) had been working closely with foreign law enforcement counterparts to trace Ong's whereabouts.
He was arrested by Thai authorities in October 2022 and jailed in Thailand for drug-related and immigration offences. On July 30 this year, he was released from prison and detained at the immigration detention centre before being deported back to Singapore. The Royal Thai Police assisted SPF to facilitate the deportation, ensuring Ong's return to justice.
Upon his arrival in Singapore, Ong was arrested on Monday by the police, who had been waiting for him since his release from detention. He will be charged with unauthorised access to computer material and faces a possible sentence of up to two years' jail, fined up to S$5,000, or both.
As this case unfolds, it raises questions about the global implications of cybercrime and the efforts being made by law enforcement agencies worldwide to track down and bring individuals responsible for such activities to justice. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting personal data and taking measures to prevent identity theft and online fraud.
The Charges: Unauthorised Access to Computer Material
Ong will be facing charges of unauthorised access to computer material, which is punishable under the Computer Misuse Act. This law prohibits the unauthorized use or access of a computer system, network, or data.
Under Section 53(1) of the Computer Misuse Act, unauthorised access to computer material can be punished with imprisonment for up to two years, fined not exceeding S$5,000, or both. This sentence reflects the seriousness of the offence and serves as a deterrent to prevent others from committing similar crimes.
The Impact: Protecting Personal Data and Preventing Online Fraud
The case highlights the importance of protecting personal data and taking measures to prevent identity theft and online fraud. The use of strong passwords, regular updates of software and security systems, and being cautious when clicking on links or providing sensitive information can all help to prevent such incidents.
As technology continues to advance, it is essential that individuals and businesses alike remain vigilant in protecting themselves from cyber threats. By working together with law enforcement agencies and taking proactive steps to prevent online fraud, we can create a safer digital environment for everyone.
The Verdict: Justice Served
While the case of Ong Jian Zhen is a sobering reminder of the dangers of cybercrime, it also serves as a testament to the efforts of law enforcement agencies worldwide in tracking down and bringing individuals responsible for such activities to justice.
Through their tireless work, these agencies help to protect personal data and prevent identity theft, ultimately contributing to a safer digital environment. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to support and collaborate with these efforts, ensuring that justice is served and cybercrime is not tolerated in any form.