SINGAPORE, Aug. 19 (Xinhua) -- Singapore has introduced new and enhanced codes of practice requiring major online platforms to strengthen safeguards against scams and malicious cyber activities, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said on Tuesday.
The new rules, issued on Monday, cover online messaging and conferencing services, social media and e-commerce platforms, building on measures introduced in 2024, the SPF said in a statement.
According to the SPF, scam cases reported on designated online services fell about 37 percent between 2024 and 2025.
The new Messaging Code requires platforms to introduce measures, including user consent before unknown contacts add them to groups, warnings on suspicious accounts, and options to filter or block messages and calls from unknown contacts.
The Social Media Code asks platforms to prevent and remove suspected scam advertisements and verify advertisers' identities. Financial advertisements targeting Singapore users must also be from licensed providers.
The enhanced E-Commerce Code will strengthen login and advertising safeguards.
Platforms must comply with the new requirements by Jan. 31, 2027. Proposed legislation could raise penalties for non-compliance to 10 million Singapore dollars (7.83 million U.S. dollars). ■