Singapore police now have the authority to seize control of an individual’s bank account and block money transfers if they suspect the person is being scammed, under a new law that came into force on Tuesday. The Protection from Scams Act allows law enforcement to act without the account holder’s consent, marking one of the country’s most assertive moves yet to combat a growing surge in fraud cases.
The legislation, passed earlier this year, gives police the power to order banks to restrict a suspected scam victim’s access to digital transfers, ATM use, and credit facilities—even if the individual does not believe they are at risk. Victims will still be allowed to use their funds for legitimate needs, such as paying bills or daily expenses, but only at the discretion of the police, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
This new legal tool is intended to address a persistent challenge faced by authorities: victims who, despite repeated warnings, refuse to accept they are being defrauded. The MHA stated that restrictions would be applied only after efforts to persuade the individual have failed, and that the orders would be grounded in information provided by the victim and their family.
Police can impose these restrictions for up to 30 days initially, with the possibility of up to five renewals if further time is needed to protect the individual. The measures are designed to act swiftly to halt transactions before significant losses occur.
Singapore has witnessed a dramatic rise in scam-related crime, with reported cases increasing from around 15,600 in 2020 to more than 50,000 in 2024. Losses reached a record S$1.1 billion (US$860 million) last year, as scammers deployed increasingly sophisticated tactics, including bogus job offers, fake investments, and online shopping scams. Love scams have also surged, with fraudsters often investing months to build trust before requesting money.
While the law has drawn support from those who see it as a necessary protection, some members of Parliament have expressed concern over its scope. During debates earlier this year, MPs suggested alternatives such as allowing individuals to opt out or appoint someone they trust to intervene instead of relying on police discretion.
Critics have raised questions about the potential for overreach and abuse of power. In response, the MHA has reiterated that safeguards are in place, and restriction orders will only be issued when there is credible concern that a person is being manipulated despite clear warnings.
The new powers expand on existing anti-scam tools rolled out in recent years. Since 2023, Singapore bank customers have been able to lock a portion of their funds, preventing digital transfers. Most banks now also offer an emergency “kill switch” that allows users to freeze accounts immediately if they suspect fraud.
As scammers continue to evolve their tactics, Singapore’s latest measures reflect a broader shift toward more proactive and interventionist approaches to financial crime. Authorities are betting that early disruption—before money leaves the account—can reduce the emotional and financial toll of scams on victims and their families.
