Singapore Enacts Anti-Scam Law to Restrict Transfers by Potential Victims

Singapore has introduced the Protection from Scams Act 2025, granting police powers to temporarily restrict banking and credit transactions if individuals are suspected of being scam targets.

From 1 July, officers can issue restriction orders—lasting up to 30 days and renewable five times—to banks such as DBS, OCBC, and UOB. These orders block digital, ATM, and credit transfers to prevent scam-related losses.

Affected individuals can request limited access to funds for essential needs or appeal to the Commissioner of Police. The law is intended as a last-resort measure when prior interventions fail to deter scam victims.