Key Takeaways
- Harassment by a licensed lender is illegal under Singapore law.
- Licensed lenders must follow strict rules set by the Ministry of Law’s Registry of Moneylenders (ROM).
- Harassment includes threats, excessive calls, abusive messages, public shaming, illegal visits, or misuse of personal data.
- Borrowers do not have to tolerate harassment or intimidation. If you feel unsafe or threatened by a licensed money lender, contact the police immediately.
- You can report errant money lenders to ROM without fear of penalties.
- Personal data misuse by money lenders can be reported to the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC).
- If you are experiencing licensed money lender harassment, it’s important to know that you’re not alone—and more importantly, you are protected by Singapore law.
Licensed money lenders operate under strict regulations enforced by the Ministry of Law and the Registry of Moneylenders (ROM). Any form of intimidation, threats, or abusive debt collection behaviour is illegal, even if the lender is licensed. Borrowers have clear rights, and there are official channels to help you stop such behaviour safely.
This guide explains what constitutes harassment by licensed lenders, outlines what licensed lenders are legally allowed—and not allowed—to do, and shows you where to seek help if the situation escalates.
What Counts as Licensed Money Lender Harassment in Singapore?
Understanding what qualifies as licensed money lender harassment can help you recognise when a lender has gone too far—and what steps you can take.
If you experience any of the above, the lender is acting unlawfully—even if they are licensed—and you have the right to take action through official channels.
Allowed Visit Timings by Licensed Money Lenders
The Professional Service Handbook for Licensed Moneylenders sets clear guidelines for visits to a borrower’s residence:
- Visits should only occur as a last resort
- Permitted hours are:
- Monday to Friday: 8am to 10pm
- Weekends & Public Holidays: 9am to 9pm
Any visit outside these hours may be considered harassment, and you may seek recourse under the Protection from Harassment Act.
What to Do if Rules Are Breached
If a licensed money lender flouts any rules, your first step can be to contact the lender’s Test-Qualified Manager (TQM). Every licensed money lender in Singapore must appoint a TQM, whose responsibilities include:
- Ensuring the lender complies with the Moneylenders Act and licence conditions
- Overseeing staff conduct and daily operations
- Making sure internal procedures are properly documented and followed
While the TQM’s primary role is regulatory compliance, they can help address issues such as misunderstandings, rude staff behaviour, or administrative errors.
Where Can You Get Help for Licensed Money Lender Harassment?
Call the Police if You Feel Threatened or Unsafe
Your safety always comes first. Skip the TQM step and contact the police immediately at 999 if you feel unsafe or threatened, or if you experience any of the following:
⚠️Threats of physical harm
⚠️ Aggressive or repeated harassment
⚠️ Stalking or being followed
⚠️ Property damage
⚠️ Violent behaviour
⚠️ Illegal actions by debt collectors
If you realise you are dealing with an unlicensed money lender, call the police right away or file an online police report to report the unlicensed money lender.
File a Complaint With the Registry of Moneylenders (ROM)
If you have a complaint against a licensed money lender, you can file a report with the Registry of Moneylenders (ROM). This avenue is available only when the lender is officially licensed, and it allows regulators to investigate and take action where necessary. All errant lenders will be dealt with accordingly.
When to File a Complaint with ROM
Making a money lender report to the ROM is appropriate in situations such as:
- Persistent unprofessional behaviour or harassment by a licensed money lender
- Excessive or aggressive collection attempts
- Unauthorised fees and charges
- Misuse of personal data
- Use of illegal loan agents
- Disputes relating to loan contracts
These matters fall under the ROM’s regulatory oversight and may result in disciplinary action against the lender if misconduct is confirmed.
What Borrowers Should Know
Borrowers will not be penalised for making a money lender report. All complaints submitted to the ROM are thoroughly investigated, and action may be taken against the moneylender if warranted. The reporting process is designed to protect borrowers and ensure fair and lawful lending practices.
Reporting Personal Data Misuse to the PDPC
If your personal data has been misused by a licensed money lender—for example, disclosing your debt to your employer or relatives, posting your debt publicly, or sharing your identity card or loan details without consent—you may also lodge a report with the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC). Licensed money lenders are legally required to safeguard borrowers’ personal information under the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA).
Preparing to File a Money Lender Report
Presenting organised evidence will help the authorities act more quickly. Before filing a report, gather any evidence you have, such as screenshots of messages, call logs, records of dates and times, photos of vandalism, phone numbers used by debt collectors, voice recordings, or copies of your loan contract and payment records. You need not confront the money lender before making a report.
Conclusion: Borrow From a Legal Money Lender to Avoid Harassment
Harassment—even by licensed lenders—is illegal in Singapore. Borrowers are protected by robust legislation, clear regulations, and enforcement by the relevant authorities. If a lender crosses the line, you have the right to take action and seek help through official channels.
That said, the best way to avoid licensed money lender harassment is to borrow from a reputable licensed money lender from the start. At Soon Seng Credit, we operate in full compliance with the Ministry of Law’s regulations and maintain strict ethical and responsible lending standards. Harassment, intimidation, or abusive practices are never tolerated.
With over 3,000 positive reviews, you can trust that we always have your best interests at heart. Contact our team or apply now for a transparent and hassle-free loan experience.
