Singapore’s first national anti-scam roadshow unites government, tech firms, and NGOs to fight rising digital fraud
Singapore has launched its first-ever National Anti-Scam Roadshow to combat a sharp rise in scam cases that have cost citizens over S$456 million in just six months. The landmark event highlights the city-state’s multi-agency strategy to raise awareness, boost public vigilance, and strengthen legal deterrence.
A Nationwide Effort to Combat Scams
Held from Nov 8 to 9 at the HDB Hub Atrium in Toa Payoh, the National Anti-Scam Roadshow marks a milestone in Singapore’s fight against scams. The event runs daily from 10am to 8pm and features interactive exhibits, educational mini-games, and live performances. Jointly spearheaded by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI), the initiative aims to equip the public with practical tools to identify and avoid scams.
Minister of State for Home Affairs and Social and Family Development Goh Pei Ming officiated the opening ceremony, stressing that community vigilance remains key. “A vigilant and discerning public is the best defence against scams,” he said.
Major Losses Prompt Stronger Measures
The urgency of the initiative comes as scam cases hit 19,665 in the first half of 2025, resulting in losses of S$456 million (RM1.9 billion). According to police figures, the top five scams—phishing, e-commerce, job offers, investment schemes, and government impersonation—account for more than 70% of total cases.
To strengthen deterrence, Parliament recently passed amendments mandating caning for convicted scammers, signalling the government’s tougher stance. The ministries said these legislative changes are part of a “multi-pronged approach” that combines enforcement, education, and technology.
Tech and Community Partners Join Forces
The roadshow features booths from key government agencies such as the Singapore Police Force, GovTech, Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and the Cyber Security Agency (CSA). Tech leaders like Google and cybersecurity firm Virage, as well as NGOs such as Aidha, are also participating to provide expert insights and tools.
Other contributors include the National Crime Prevention Council, Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), and the Association of Banks in Singapore, all showcasing mobile and digital safety solutions. These partnerships highlight Singapore’s whole-of-society approach to protecting citizens in an increasingly digital economy.
Data Shows Human Error Drives Most Scams
Authorities noted that 78.8% of scams in 2025 were “self-effected”, meaning victims were deceived into acting voluntarily. The ministries emphasized that while technological defences are improving, individual awareness remains the strongest line of protection.
“Every individual must play their part by learning and adopting anti-scam measures,” MHA and MDDI said in a joint statement. “Healthy scepticism and timely reporting can prevent scams from succeeding in the first place.”
Empowering Communities for Long-Term Impact
The Toa Payoh roadshow marks the start of a larger national movement. MHA and MDDI plan to extend outreach through community events, educational campaigns, and future roadshows across the island. These initiatives aim to build digital resilience at the grassroots level—empowering citizens to protect themselves and their loved ones from sophisticated scam operations.
Singapore’s National Anti-Scam Roadshow signals a powerful national commitment to digital safety, blending law enforcement, education, and technology. For neighbouring nations like Indonesia and Malaysia, the initiative serves as a model of how collaboration between government, tech, and community can turn awareness into action. As scam tactics evolve, public vigilance remains the nation’s best defence against deception.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , CNA (2025)
Keywords: Anti Scam Roadshow, Scam Awareness Singapore, Cybersecurity, Scam Prevention, Public Vigilance, Digital Safety
