Singapore proposes ASEAN code and guide to curb online scams
Singapore, as next ASEAN chair, has put forward a voluntary code of practice and a best-practice guide to help member states tackle online fraud.
Ahead of assuming the ASEAN chairmanship next year, Singapore has tabled two initiatives to strengthen the region's fight against online scams. Senior Minister K. Shanmugam outlined a voluntary ASEAN Code of Practice that would establish baseline safeguards for platforms, including rapid escalation of suspicious activity to authorities and verification steps to block fake accounts. In parallel, Singapore proposes a Best Practices Guide that details effective scam investigations, legislative frameworks and public-awareness campaigns.
These proposals are designed to work alongside the FRONTIER+ initiative, a collaborative effort led by the Singapore Police Force that currently involves six ASEAN members in intelligence sharing, joint enforcement, and cross-border fund tracing. The new measures aim to provide adaptable, region-wide standards without imposing mandatory obligations on member states.
Why it matters
Coordinated regional standards could reduce cross-border online fraud affecting millions in ASEAN.
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