Understanding Singapore’s Private Security Industry Act: What Every Private Investigator and Client Should Know
- Absolute Digital
- Jun 17
- 4 min read
In Singapore, private investigators (PIs) play a key role in helping individuals and corporations uncover facts, resolve disputes, and make informed decisions. However, due to the sensitive nature of their work, the industry is strictly governed by the Private Security Industry Act (PSIA). This legislation, administered by the Singapore Police Force (SPF), ensures that all investigations are conducted professionally, ethically, and within legal boundaries.
At Asia Top Investigation, we are proud to operate fully within this legal framework. As a licensed and trusted Private Investigator agency in Singapore, we maintain a strong commitment to transparency, compliance, and results.
What Is the Private Security Industry Act (PSIA) in Singapore?
The PSIA is a law designed to regulate the security sector, including private investigation services. It standardizes the conduct and qualifications of PIs and investigation agencies to prevent misuse of authority, uphold public interest, and protect client confidentiality.
Key Objectives of the PSIA:
Ensure only qualified, licensed individuals and agencies conduct investigations
Maintain high ethical and professional standards
Prohibit unauthorized, deceptive, or illegal practices
Protect client data and personal privacy
Who Needs a PI License in Singapore?
Under the PSIA, any individual or agency offering investigative services for a fee must be licensed. This includes:
Local and foreign-based Private Investigators operating within Singapore
Licensed investigation agencies such as Asia Top Investigation
License Types:
Private Investigator License – for individuals conducting investigations
Private Investigation Agency License – for registered businesses offering PI services
How to Become a Licensed Private Investigator in Singapore
To legally operate as a PI in Singapore, candidates must meet stringent licensing requirements enforced by the Police Licensing & Regulatory Department (PLRD) of the SPF.
Requirements for Individuals:
Be a Singapore citizen or Permanent Resident
Be at least 21 years old
Have no criminal record or adverse background
Complete PLRD-accredited training on surveillance, investigative techniques, and legal compliance
Be employed under a licensed Private Investigation agency (independent operation is not allowed)
Requirements for Agencies:
Business must be registered with ACRA
Hold a valid Private Investigation Agency License issued by PLRD
Employ only licensed, trained investigators
Appoint a qualified manager to oversee operations
Maintain proper case management, recordkeeping, and confidentiality protocols
Adhere strictly to PSIA provisions and regular audits
What Private Investigators Are Legally Allowed to Do
Licensed PIs in Singapore are allowed to carry out various tasks—within clearly defined legal limits.
Permitted Activities Include:
Surveillance in public areas (e.g., malls, roads, cafés)
Background and employment verification
Interviewing willing subjects
Monitoring publicly accessible online content (e.g., social media)
Gathering publicly available or legally obtained information
Reporting facts for legal, personal, or corporate decision-making
What Private Investigators Are Prohibited from Doing
The PSIA outlines strict restrictions to prevent abuse of investigative authority. Licensed PIs must not:
Trespass on private property without permission
Tap phones or intercept communications
Hack emails, digital devices, or surveillance systems
Install hidden cameras or recording devices in private homes or vehicles
Impersonate police officers or government officials
Coerce, deceive, or intimidate individuals during investigations
Legal Consequences of Misconduct:
Fines of up to S$10,000
License suspension or revocation
Imprisonment of up to 2 years
Permanent disqualification from the industry
Why These Rules Matter for Clients
Understanding these boundaries helps clients:
Avoid involvement in unlawful investigations
Protect personal data and legal standing
Ensure their case is managed professionally and ethically
At Asia Top Investigation, every case we handle complies fully with these legal safeguards, giving our clients peace of mind and trustworthy results.
Data Protection and Confidentiality
Under the PSIA, licensed investigators and agencies must uphold strict confidentiality.
At Asia Top Investigation, we:
Securely store all client data
Use encrypted systems for information access
Destroy unnecessary data after case closure
Never share information with third parties without explicit client consent
How to Verify a PI’s License in Singapore
Before hiring a Private Investigator, it’s important to confirm their legitimacy.
Here’s how:
Visit the GoBusiness Licensing Portal or Singapore Police Force website to verify licensing
Request to see valid PLRD-issued licenses and certifications
Check for online reviews, experience history, and case success rates
Confirm the agency's registration with PLRD and ACRA
Asia Top Investigation provides full transparency with our licenses and credentials. We’re always happy to share proof of our compliance and qualifications.
Asia Top Investigation’s Commitment to Legal & Ethical Excellence
Our team of licensed investigators operates with the highest standards of professionalism. We:
Employ only licensed, trained personnel
Conduct ongoing legal and ethics training
Avoid gray-area or borderline illegal tactics
Provide court-admissible, fact-based reports
Undergo regular internal audits to maintain compliance
Case Studies: Legal Investigations in Action
Case Study 1: Employee Misconduct
A corporation suspected internal data leakage. Our team conducted legal public surveillance and background checks. The evidence led to a resolution—without breaching any digital systems or privacy laws.
Case Study 2: Asset Tracing
A client in a civil dispute needed confirmation of financial claims. Our investigators legally tracked the subject’s movements and discovered inconsistencies using permitted tools and data sources.
Every action was conducted within PSIA guidelines—ensuring legality, accuracy, and admissibility in court.
Public Education & Advocacy
We believe clients make better decisions when they’re informed. That’s why Asia Top Investigation:
Publishes educational articles like this
Offers free consultations on legal investigation options
Advocates for high ethical standards within the industry
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I hire a PI for personal matters?
Yes. Licensed PIs can assist with personal issues like background checks, cheating suspicions, or locating individuals.
Q: Will my identity remain confidential?
Absolutely. Your identity and all case details are strictly protected.
Q: Is surveillance legal in Singapore?
Yes, but only in public spaces or with proper consent in private areas.
Q: Can PIs present evidence in court?
Yes, provided the information was legally obtained. Our reports are designed to meet legal standards.
Conclusion
Singapore’s Private Security Industry Act ensures that private investigation work is professional, lawful, and trustworthy. At Asia Top Investigation, we strictly follow this framework to protect our clients and maintain our reputation as a leading Singapore Private Investigator agency.
If you’re considering engaging a private investigator, always ensure they are licensed, legal, and ethical. Trust matters—and so does the law.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact Asia Top Investigation today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
📞 Call us at +65 8820 0007
📧 Email us at vt@asiatopinvestigation.com
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