SINGAPORE, Nov 8 — In a landmark move to tackle the growing threat of scams, Singapore has launched its first-ever National Anti-Scam Roadshow, bringing together government agencies, tech companies, and community partners in a united front to raise public awareness and promote scam prevention.

CNA reported that the roadshow, held at the HDB Hub Atrium in Toa Payoh from Nov 8 to 9, runs daily from 10am to 8pm and features interactive exhibits, educational games, and live performances aimed at helping the public identify scam tactics and adopt protective measures.

The initiative is jointly spearheaded by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI).

Minister of State for Home Affairs and for Social and Family Development Goh Pei Ming officiated the opening ceremony, emphasising the importance of public vigilance in the fight against scams.

Booths from key agencies such as the Singapore Police Force, GovTech, the Monetary Authority of Singapore, and the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore offer practical tools and advice on digital safety.

Tech giants like Google and cybersecurity firm Virage, along with NGOs such as Aidha, are also participating to share insights and resources.

The roadshow comes amid alarming statistics: in the first half of 2025 alone, Singapore recorded 19,665 scam cases, resulting in losses of approximately S$456 million (RM1.9 billion).

The top five scams—phishing, e-commerce, job offers, investment schemes, and impersonation of government officials—accounted for over 70 per cent of all cases.

In a significant legislative development, Parliament recently passed amendments to the criminal law mandating caning for convicted scammers, underscoring the government’s tough stance.

MHA and MDDI also highlighted ongoing efforts to leverage technology to detect and block scams more effectively.

Despite these measures, the ministries stressed that public awareness remains the most powerful defense.

“A vigilant and discerning public is the best defence against scams,” they said, noting that over 78.8 per cent of scams in the first half of the year were “self-effected,” meaning individuals were tricked into acting on their own.

The roadshow marks the beginning of a series of community engagements aimed at empowering individuals to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Authorities urge everyone to stay informed, verify suspicious communications, and report scams promptly.