Maid says her employer takes her phone away and returns it only after work; gives her GIGA card but charges her $10/month

A Filipina domestic helper appealed for help and advice concerning her employer, whom she says only lets her have her cell phone at night.

And when she asked if she could connect to the family’s Wi-Fi, the employer said she will buy the helper a SIM card for free. 

But as it turned out, they gave the maid a GIGA SIM card that already had an account and is charging her $10 every month.

The helper, who appealed to fellow Filipinas as well as helpers from other countries on the FDW in Singapore (working conditions forum) Facebook page in a post on Wednesday (Oct 19), wrote that she is a first-timer in Singapore, and she has only been here for a month and a half.

“My employer taking my phone whole day and they give it to me at night after my worked. But when I am 1 month here I asking for them if I can to connect to there wifi so that I can communicate my family in Philippines,” the helper wrote.

She asked if anyone is familiar with giga sim cards, adding that she is already “confused a lot,” and wondered if her employees can monitor her using her number or through GPS during her days off.

“I WANT TO (BE) AWARE (OF) MY SITUATION,” the helper, who posted anonymously, wrote.

Several commenters advised her to buy a new sim card, or even a new phone, in order to have some privacy.

One wrote, “if they take again ur phone better find another employer..gadgets is life sis!”

Another advised her to be patient, “Later on if you gain their trust they will let you have ur privacy.”

At least one giga user was able to offer helpful advice.

Others shared similar stories.

/TISG

Maid says she feels sad & disappointed her employer will hold 2 months’ salary when she goes on home leave next week, asks ‘may i know for what reason?’