The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has partnered with major Telcos in Singapore to introduce an option allowing mobile subscribers to block incoming calls from international numbers. This move aims to combat the increasing threat of scams, particularly those originating from overseas.

What you should know

• Approximately 1.6 billion international calls are received in Singapore annually, exposing users to potential scam calls from abroad.
• IMDA and Telcos have implemented measures, including blocking calls with unusually high frequency and those with a falsified caller ID to resemble local calls.
• From January to September 2023, Telcos blocked over 300 million scam calls, equating to one in every four incoming international calls during this period.
• Subscribers can now opt in to block all incoming calls from international numbers, enhancing their protection against scams.

Request to block international calls

• Singtel: https://www.singtel.com/personal/products-services/lifestyle-services/my-smart-network/international-barring
• M1: https://www.m1.com.sg/support/faq/call-barring-faq
• StarHub: https://www.starhub.com/personal/mobile/mobile-phones-plans/value-added-services/blockoverseascalls.html

The collaboration between IMDA and Telcos reflects a proactive effort to address the persistent issue of scam calls. The introduction of an option for subscribers to block international calls is a significant step in protecting the public from evolving scam tactics. As the fight against scams continues, IMDA emphasizes the importance of a vigilant public, while further measures to block SMS from international numbers are expected by mid-2024. This multi-layered approach underscores the collective responsibility in combating scams and encourages public awareness and caution.