Singapore Police Given Power to Block Bank Accounts to Stop Scams
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The threat posed by scams is considerable, with 2024 being Singapore’s worst year on record for scam losses. The new law, therefore, is a necessary step, empowering the authorities to intervene and safeguard citizens’ finances. As a last resort, the use of restraining orders strikes a balance between security and ensuring individuals can still access funds for legitimate needs.
Opposition narrative
The new law is a paternalistic piece of legislation that will treat Singaporeans like children. The measure enables the authorities to intrude upon the privacy of citizens, whose financial freedoms and personal responsibility will be curtailed in the process. The law also dangerously leaves the door wide open to government overreach, with potentially devastating consequences.