Singapore Orders Apple and Google to Block Government-Agency Scam Messages

Singapore has directed Apple and Google to act against a rising wave of scams impersonating government agencies on their messaging platforms, requiring both companies to introduce new safeguards aimed at protecting the public. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the order on Tuesday, saying the measures must be implemented by the end of November.

Under the directive, Apple’s iMessage and Google Messages must block or filter accounts and group chats that mimic official Singapore government identities. Authorities said the move responds to a marked increase in scammers posing as government officers, exploiting gaps in how the platforms verify or display sender information. Both companies have signalled they will comply with the new requirements.

Recipients in Singapore often rely on the “gov.sg” message ID to confirm the legitimacy of communications from government departments. Officials said this identifier has been increasingly abused by fraudsters, prompting the need for tougher controls. The ministry stressed that messaging platforms must display clearer sender information to prevent spoofing, especially when users receive messages from unknown numbers.

Failure to meet the new standards could result in fines of up to one million Singapore dollars (about $768,000). The government said the enforcement action aims to put stronger barriers in place against scams that continue to evolve in sophistication and frequency.

In a statement, Google confirmed its cooperation, saying it is working with authorities to introduce measures that would pre-empt attempts to misuse government names on its messaging services. The company said it shares Singapore’s goal of ensuring online safety for all residents. Apple has not yet issued a public comment on the directive.

The latest order follows similar action on social media platforms. Earlier this year, Singapore police instructed Meta, the parent company of Facebook, to tighten controls after a surge in fraudulent accounts and pages claiming to represent government agencies. Authorities said these impersonation scams have targeted residents across all age groups, often using links or urgent instructions to trick victims into revealing personal details.

Officials have warned the public to remain cautious, even as new safeguards are rolled out, and to verify suspicious messages through official channels. The government said it will continue working with major technology companies to curb malicious activity online, stressing that public trust in digital communication is essential for delivering services and information.

The new requirements mark one of Singapore’s strongest regulatory moves to date against messaging-based scams, reflecting growing concern over the spread of impersonation tactics that exploit everyday communication tools used by millions.