The Singapore Police Force has issued updated Codes of Practice requiring online platforms to proactively combat scams by implementing robust detection and prevention measures. These regulations apply to messaging services, social media platforms, and e-commerce sites, with compliance mandatory by January 31, 2027.
New requirements target high-risk areas such as unsolicited messaging, deceptive advertising, and fraudulent e-commerce listings. Platforms must enhance user consent mechanisms, display risk indicators for suspicious accounts, and restrict unauthorized account access. Specific measures include blocking government official impersonation and verifying advertiser credentials for financial services.
Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram face stricter controls, including requiring user consent for group additions and displaying account provenance details. Social media platforms must remove scam advertisements and confirm advertiser legitimacy before allowing targeted campaigns. E-commerce services will strengthen account security and ad verification processes to combat fraudulent listings.
Enforcement penalties under the Online Criminal Harms Act now include fines up to SGD 10 million for non-compliance, with daily penalties for ongoing violations. These measures aim to shift platform responsibility from reactive takedowns to proactive scam prevention, reflecting Singapore’s evolving approach to digital safety.”
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