Title: Singapore’s Unconventional Approach to Combating Online Scams – A Deep Dive into Mandatory Caning of Fraudsters In recent times, online scams have become an increasingly prevalent issue across the globe. The city-state of Singapore has taken a rather unorthodox approach in combatting this surge by instituting mandatory caning as punishment for fraudsters. This form of corporal punishment dates back to its British colonial era and is now being revived with the aim of deterring potential scammers from engaging in such activities. The decision to reintroduce caning comes amidst a significant rise in online scams, which have caused substantial financial losses for victims and tarnished Singapore’s reputation as one of Asia’s most technologically advanced cities. The government believes that this drastic measure will serve as a strong deterrent against cybercrime while also sending out a clear message about the severity of these crimes. Historically, caning has been used in Singapore since its colonial days when it was introduced by British colonizers to maintain order and discipline among the population. Over time, however, this form of punishment fell into disuse due to widespread criticism over its brutality and potential for abuse. However, with the growing threat posed by online scams, authorities have decided to bring back caning as a means to instill fear in would-be criminals. The implications of such a move are far-reaching. On one hand, it could potentially lead to a significant decrease in online fraud cases if successful in deterring potential offenders. On the other hand, there is also the risk that this drastic measure may backfire and result in an increase in violent crime rates as criminals seek alternative ways to make money without fear of physical punishment. From my perspective, while I understand the need for strong measures against cybercrime, reintroducing corporal punishment like caning seems outdated and counterproductive. In today’s world, where technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate, it would be more effective to invest in advanced cybersecurity systems that can detect and prevent online scams before they even occur. Additionally, education on internet safety should also be prioritized so that individuals are better equipped to identify and avoid potential scams. In conclusion, while Singapore’s decision to institute mandatory caning for fraudsters may seem extreme, it highlights the urgent need for effective measures against online scams. However, I believe that investing in modern cybersecurity solutions and promoting internet safety education would be a more suitable approach than resorting to outdated forms of punishment.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/11/06/singapore-caning-scams/)
#singapore
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