Singapore Implements Restrictions on Scam Mules' Access to Banking and Telecommunications

Starting in October 2025, Singapore will implement a series of restrictions aimed at individuals involved in mule-related offences, which include the misuse of bank, payment, and telecommunications accounts to facilitate scams. The initiative is a collaborative effort by the Singapore Police Force (SPF), Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), and Government Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech). These measures are designed to disrupt the operations of scam syndicates that rely on local individuals, known as mules, to provide essential services for their fraudulent activities.

Singapore to Bar Scam Mules From Bank, Phone, and Singpass AccessThe Straits TimesScammers value local phone lines to gain victims' trust, scam mules to face banking, phone service restrictionsChannel News Asia - CNASingaporean authorities to restrict access to financial and telecom services for scam mulesJoint Press Release by SPF, MAS, IMDA and GovTech on Restricting Access to Facilities for Scam Mules

The restrictions will apply to individuals who have been warned, prosecuted, convicted, or are currently under investigation for mule-related offences. Key measures include:

Singaporean authorities to restrict access to financial and telecom services for scam mules

• Prohibition on New Mobile Line Subscriptions: Individuals will be barred from registering new phone lines, which are often used to contact potential victims.

Channel News Asia - CNA

• Access Restrictions to Banking Services: This includes limitations on digital banking services, card-based transactions, and ATM withdrawals, which are commonly exploited to transfer scam proceeds.

Singaporean authorities to restrict access to financial and telecom services for scam mules

• Limitations on National Authentication Services: Access to Singpass and Corppass accounts will be restricted, preventing mules from using these services to open bank accounts or register new entities.

Channel News Asia - CNA

The specific restrictions will be tailored based on the assessed risk posed by the individual, taking into account their basic financial and communication needs.

Channel News Asia - CNA

In the first half of 2025, Singapore reported 19,665 scam cases, resulting in losses of approximately S$456.4 million (US$357 million). Authorities noted that nearly 15% of telephone line subscribers involved in scams were repeat offenders, with over 11,000 lines linked to such activities. The police have observed that some mules continue to apply for new lines even while under investigation, indicating a persistent issue with repeat offences.

Scammers value local phone lines to gain victims' trust, scam mules to face banking, phone service restrictions

Authorities emphasized the necessity of these restrictions, stating, “The success of scam syndicates hinges on local persons providing their bank accounts, mobile lines and other essential facilities to the syndicates. We have to restrict scammers’ access to these facilities, to disrupt their operations and protect the public.” The SPF has committed to taking firmer action against mules, ensuring that those previously involved in scams cannot easily access services that could facilitate further fraudulent activities.

Channel News Asia - CNASingapore to Bar Scam Mules From Bank, Phone, and Singpass AccessScammers value local phone lines to gain victims' trust, scam mules to face banking, phone service restrictionsJoint Press Release by SPF, MAS, IMDA and GovTech on Restricting Access to Facilities for Scam MulesThe Straits TimesSingaporean authorities to restrict access to financial and telecom services for scam mules

While the measures aim to protect the public, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for abuse of power in the enforcement of these restrictions. Critics argue that the internal information-sharing process among banks, telcos, and government agencies may lack transparency, leading to unjust penalties for individuals who may not pose a significant risk.

Singapore to Bar Scam Mules From Bank, Phone, and Singpass Access

The phased implementation of these restrictions will begin in October 2025, starting with banking service limitations and mobile line subscription prohibitions. Restrictions on Singpass and Corppass accounts will follow in subsequent phases. Affected individuals will be notified by the police and will have the right to appeal against the imposed restrictions.

Channel News Asia - CNAThe Straits TimesSingaporean authorities to restrict access to financial and telecom services for scam mulesJoint Press Release by SPF, MAS, IMDA and GovTech on Restricting Access to Facilities for Scam MulesScammers value local phone lines to gain victims' trust, scam mules to face banking, phone service restrictionsSingapore to Bar Scam Mules From Bank, Phone, and Singpass Access

• “The facility restriction framework ensures that persons who had facilitated scams previously cannot easily again access services that could facilitate yet more scams.” — Singapore Police Force

Singapore to Bar Scam Mules From Bank, Phone, and Singpass Access

• “We have to restrict scammers’ access to these facilities, to disrupt their operations and protect the public.” — Authorities

The Straits Times

• “The Police fully intend to take firmer and stronger action against mules who facilitate scams of fellow Singaporeans.” — Authorities

Joint Press Release by SPF, MAS, IMDA and GovTech on Restricting Access to Facilities for Scam Mules

These measures reflect Singapore's ongoing commitment to combatting the rising tide of scams and protecting its citizens from financial fraud.

Singapore to Bar Scam Mules From Bank, Phone, and Singpass Access