Singapore Introduces Caning for Online Scammers Amid Rising Fraud Cases

Singapore, Nov 7, 2025 – In a bold move to combat the surge of online scams, Singapore’s parliament has enacted a law introducing mandatory caning for scammers. This decision comes amidst a staggering report of tens of thousands of scams, which have cost victims nearly $385 million in losses during the first half of this year.

Sim Ann, senior minister of state for foreign affairs and home affairs, presented the bill. She stated, “Offenders who commit scams, defined as cheating mainly by means of remote communication, will be punished with at least six strokes of the cane.” Scams now represent 60 percent of all crimes in Singapore, leading to billions in losses.

Following the passage of the bill earlier this week, a video demonstration of the punishment has gone viral, showcasing the severe nature of the penalty. The law mandates a minimum of six strokes of caning, while more severe cases could face up to 24 strokes. This form of punishment, typically used for serious offences such as rape and drug trafficking, will only apply to male offenders under 50 years old and follows a medical examination.

Those who are members or recruiters within scam syndicates will also face the same caning penalties if convicted. The new amendment also revises penalties by removing mandatory caning for some offences, such as vandalism, which will now allow for discretionary punishment.

Judicial caning in Singapore dates back to British colonial rule in the 19th century, and it has faced increasing criticism, particularly from human rights groups. Organizations like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have labeled caning as a form of torture under international law. Despite this, the practice continues, having even been applied in a less severe form in schools for discipline.