In a bold move to combat the growing scourge of scams, Singapore’s Parliament passed amendments under the Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill on 4 November 2025 to introduce caning as a punishment for scam-related offences. This marks a historic shift in the treatment of financial crimes.
Caning in Singapore has traditionally been reserved for offences involving serious violence or sexual harm. The authorities now recognise that scams, which have cost Singaporeans nearly S$3.88 billion between 2020 and September 2025, can inflict comparable financial and emotional damage. Introducing caning underscores the seriousness of these offences and strengthens the law’s deterrent effect.
Why Caning?
Scams often involve organised syndicates and enablers, and they can leave victims with devastating losses. By including caning as a possible punishment, the law ensures that organisers and accomplices face consequences proportional to the harm caused.
This approach aligns scam-related offences with violent and sexual crimes, signalling that financial exploitation is taken as seriously as physical harm in Singapore’s justice system.
What the New Law Covers
Under the Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill:
- Individuals convicted under Section 420 of the Penal Code 1871, for cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property, face up to 10 years in prison, a fine, and mandatory caning of at least six strokes.
- Members and recruiters of organised criminal groups established for scam offences face mandatory caning of at least six strokes.
- Individuals who knowingly enable scams, for example by providing bank accounts, SIM cards, or Singpass credentials, may face discreionary caning of up to 12 strokes.
- Sentences for syndicate members or masterminds can go up to 24 strokes depending on the severity of the offence.
These amendments reflect the government’s position that scam-related crimes are no longer considered minor or victimless offences. By introducing caning alongside imprisonment and fines, the law sends a clear message that financial exploitation can have devastating consequences and deserves punishment comparable to violent and sexual offences.
The move acknowledges both the sophisticated methods used by organised scam syndicates and the serious harm inflicted on victims, ranging from significant financial loss to emotional distress. It also serves as a strong deterrent, reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to protecting its citizens from exploitation and upholding public trust in the integrity of the financial system.
Our Lawyer’s Insights
Earlier this year, our criminal lawyer also spoke with CNA regarding the introduction of caning provisions for scam-related offences. She highlighted Singapore’s low tolerance for crime and with the introduction of caning, it sends a strong message to offenders and potential offenders that scam-related offences will not be tolerated.
She explained that caning serves as an additional deterrent, noting that financial penalties alone may not be sufficient in certain cases as imprisonment and fines may often be considered as part of the consequences for those involved in organised scam syndicates.
If you are being investigated for a scam-related offence, it is crucial to seek professional legal advice as soon as possible. Contact us today to speak with an experienced criminal lawyer who can guide you through the process and help protect your rights.
