Canny

In November 2024, the Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS) introduced Canny the Chameleon as its official anti-scam mascot. Designed to serve as a visual reminder for consumers - especially children and youth - to remain vigilant against scams, Canny symbolises adaptability and awareness, traits essential for recognising and avoiding fraudulent activities.

Canny the Chameleon was created by 10-year-old Constance Ambre Le Grand de Mercey, whose design won the ABS Anti-Scam Mascot Design Competition. Constance’s entry was called Leon the Skameleon, which was the name mentioned in ABS’ June media release announcing the winner but eventually changed when the mascot was officially introduced in November.

“Leon the Skameleon” is based on the idea that scammers are like chameleons, a type of lizard that changes its colours to blend into its surroundings. Scammers have been known to adapt their fraudulent tactics to different platforms, devices, apps, etc, to deceive customers into thinking the information sought after is from their banks in order to gain access to their bank accounts.
“Leon the Skameleon” features a QR code on its “skin” which, when scanned, will lead bank customers to information on scams, how to detect them and what preventive actions to take.
-ABS media release on anti-scam mascot design competition winner

The competition received nearly 400 entries, including from professionals such as comic artist Andy Choo, who won second prize for PAW (Pause And Wait) the Cat. Education officer Yang Wenjun won third prize for her entry Spotty, a red dot.

Local member banks of the ABS (DBS Bank, POSB, and UOB) incorporate Canny into their public education initiatives to raise awareness about scams.

Canny also appears on various merchandise such as T-shirts, alongside digital assets like online stickers.

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