SINGAPORE: Singapore police can now seize a person’s bank account if there is proof they are being scammed, according to legislation that came into force on Tuesday.

The law, which passed in January, allows authorities to halt bank transactions if there is compelling evidence an account holder is about to transfer money to a scammer, even if willingly.

Previously, police were powerless to stop potential scam victims from transferring money even if it was clear they were being cheated. The restriction will see the individual’s bank accounts, ATM access and credit facilities suspended, while still allowing them to withdraw funds for daily living expenses.

The law “enables the police to better protect targets of ongoing scams”, the Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement on Monday. “The restriction order is necessary for the protection of the individual.

Published in Dawn, July 2nd, 2025