Singapore is considering caning as a punishment for serious scam-related offences after scam losses hit a record $1.1 billion in 2024. Minister of State for Home Affairs Sun Xueling announced this on March 4 during the MHA budget debate.

Ms. Sun acknowledged the severe impact of scams and said caning is under review, recognizing the significant harm they cause. She noted that while loan shark runners handling illicit funds can be caned, scammers stealing larger amounts cannot. She emphasized the need for tougher penalties to deter fraudsters.

Between 2019 and 2024, Singaporeans lost over $3.4 billion to scams. In August 2024, the Sentencing Advisory Panel recommended stricter jail terms for money mules assisting scammers, leading to tougher court sentences.

To combat scams, the government introduced new laws in January 2025 criminalizing unregistered SIM sales and fraudulent use. Offenders now face up to three years in jail or a $10,000 fine. Ms. Sun warned that “SIM-card mules” facilitate crimes that devastate lives.

Authorities are also monitoring Telegram, where scam cases nearly doubled in 2024. Ms. Sun urged the platform to improve user verification or face legal action. She also noted Telegram’s links to drug-related activities and non-consensual sexual content.

New regulations, such as the Online Communication Code and E-Commerce Code, have enhanced scam prevention. Stronger verification measures on platforms like Carousell and Meta led to a 10% drop in scams on Carousell and a 60% decline on Facebook Marketplace.

Ms. Sun reaffirmed Singapore’s tough stance on scams, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting citizens.

Source and Photo Credit: The Strait Times