Singapore: Adopted SPF Code of Practice for Online Communication Services

On 21 June 2024, the Singapore Police Force adopted the Code of Practice for Online Communication Services under the Online Criminal Harms Act 2023. The code requires all designated online communication service providers to implement measures to counter and prevent the use of their platforms for scams and malicious cyber activities. In particular, the designated providers must take proactive steps to detect and disrupt malicious accounts and activities, allowing end-users to report suspected scams and malicious activities through accessible mechanisms. They are required to maintain fast-track channels for law enforcement reports, retain relevant data for investigations, and facilitate requests for information from authorities. Furthermore, the code also mandates verification measures to prevent the creation of fraudulent accounts, additional checks for suspicious activities, and strong login verification features. Providers must offer account holders the option to designate their accounts as “verified” and inform users about the reliability of such accounts. Finally, the designated providers must submit an annual report detailing their efforts and measures to counter scams and malicious activities, including descriptions of policies, challenges, and metrics on the effectiveness of their actions. The designated providers include Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, WeChat, and WhatsApp. The designated providers are required to implement the measures within 6 months, by 27 December 2024.