A growing number of young people in Singapore are becoming money mules — individuals who let scammers use their bank accounts to move illicit funds — often tempted by easy-money offers on social media. Many, like 16-year-old “Ethan” and 20-year-old “Kiran,” later found themselves facing criminal charges after their accounts were used for scam transactions.
Between 2020 and September 2025, Singapore recorded over 190,000 scam cases involving more than $3.8 billion in losses. In response, Parliament passed a new law on Nov 4, 2025, allowing caning for scammers and money mules who knowingly provide bank accounts, SIM cards, or Singpass credentials. The Sentencing Advisory Panel also recommended minimum six-month jail terms or reformative training (RT) for young offenders.
However, lawyers have urged restraint and flexibility in applying these harsher penalties. They warn that a “one-size-fits-all” approach could overlook the naivety, financial pressure, or peer influence that drive youths into such crimes. RT, while structured and rehabilitative, creates a lifelong criminal record, which can derail education and employment prospects.
Lawyer Anil Singh cautioned that many offenders do not understand the seriousness of their actions. James Gomez questioned why violent youth offenders can receive probation while money mules face RT. Others, like Tanaya Shekhar Kinjavdekar, noted that the tougher stance signals a policy shift prioritising deterrence, but may reduce room for leniency.
Judges have occasionally opted for community-based sentences instead. For instance, an 18-year-old girl who handed over two bank accounts for $500 avoided RT and instead received a day reporting order, community service, and seven days in jail, as the court recognised her “youthful folly and good prospects for reform.”
Lawyers and policymakers agree that education and awareness are crucial. Youths must be warned about the real legal consequences of selling bank accounts. Senior Minister of State Sim Ann said that Singapore’s anti-scam strategy combines strict penalties with public education and technological safeguards.
Ethan and Kiran, now undergoing therapy and family reconciliation, hope others will learn from their mistakes. “If you are going to RTC, it is not worth it. Think carefully before making the choice,” Ethan said.
Source: The Straits Times (Andrew Wong & Christine Tan), 9 Nov 2025.
