Enhancing Detection and Prevention Mechanisms in Government Financial Aid Schemes to Safeguard against Fraudulent Activities

Mr Mohd Fahmi Aliman asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) what are the steps undertaken by the Ministry to enhance the detection and prevention mechanisms within its financial aid schemes to safeguard against instances of fraudulent activities; (b) whether there are vulnerabilities or loopholes identified within the welfare mechanisms that may facilitate deceptive practices; and (c) if there are, how does the Ministry intend to address these systemic challenges to ensure the integrity of the social support systems.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: MSF adopts a multi-layered approach to guard against possible abuse by applicants for financial assistance. All applications are first checked against the eligibility criteria by our Social Service Office (SSO) staff, who are trained to look out for signs of fraud, such as inconsistencies in information provided and tampered documents. This is complemented by backend checks with relevant agencies like CPF, IRAS and HDB, as well as employers, to verify the accuracy of the information provided by applicants.

Applicants are also made aware at the outset that any false declarations will subject them to strict enforcement and legal action. There are mechanisms to ensure that assistance given to applicants who are subsequently found to be ineligible, can be appropriately recovered.

Post disbursement, we also use data analytics to pick out higher-risk profiles for more detailed investigations. MSF takes cases of cheating and fraud seriously. We will continue to take strict enforcement and legal action against those who abuse the system.