I messaged a girl via Telegram, having found her username on TikTok, offering massage services and other inappropriate content. I was only interested in the massage services. She provided an address at Blk 602 Jurong East Street 21, where I went, thinking it was for a chat session. Upon arrival, a male contacted me for a safety briefing and asked if I had $100. Remembering that she mentioned $100 for a two-hour massage, I told him I would discuss it with her and hung up. She then clarified that the $100 was necessary as she was a part-time escort. Not having the cash, she told me to leave.

The next day, I brought $100 cash. Upon arrival, a friend or boss of hers called to brief me about safety and insisted I buy two $100 gift cards from a 7-11 store. The store owner informed me it was cashless, and a police notice warned of scams involving gift cards. I confronted her and the male, but they insisted I find a store that accepted cash or use PayNow or Alipay, which I didn't have. They suggested borrowing from friends. Suspecting a scam, I confronted her with screenshots of scam warnings. She continued insisting on the gift cards and eventually blocked me when I refused. I learnt to remain calm and think carefully before making decisions.