Singapore is implementing new legislation targeting the misuse of local SIM cards, with enforcement beginning January 1, 2025. The laws establish criminal penalties for individuals who knowingly allow their SIM cards to be used in criminal activities, marking a significant expansion of the country’s ongoing efforts to combat telecommunications fraud.
Under the new regulations, individuals can be held legally responsible if they have reasonable grounds to believe their SIM cards would be used to commit or facilitate crimes. Violations can result in imprisonment terms of up to three years, fines reaching $10,000, or both penalties combined.
The legislation is part of Singapore’s broader initiative to combat scams and cybercrime. The measure works in conjunction with the Shared Responsibility Framework, implemented jointly by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). The framework establishes specific obligations for financial institutions and telecommunication companies in preventing phishing scams and determines compensation protocols for victims when these duties are not met.
As a preventive measure, telecommunications providers began offering international call blocking services on January 5, 2025. The services aim to reduce the potential for SIM cards to be exploited in international scam operations, following similar initiatives implemented in other Asian markets such as India’s international call alert system.
The regulatory push builds upon Singapore’s existing digital security infrastructure, which includes robust digital identity management systems and telecommunications oversight. The country has been particularly proactive in addressing technology-enabled fraud, with telecommunications providers like M1 Limited working with security technology providers to enhance network security.
The new regulations represent Singapore’s latest approach to addressing technology-enabled crime, building upon existing cybersecurity and telecommunications legislation. The measure strengthens Singapore’s comprehensive framework for digital security and telecommunications regulation, reinforcing the country’s position as a leader in digital security governance in Southeast Asia.
Sources: The Straits Times, Wikipedia
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