In a significant move to enhance online safety, the Singapore Government is set to expedite responses to harmful content on major online platforms, promising faster relief for victims. Law Minister Edwin Tong announced on September 23 that the government will collaborate with designated platforms to reduce the time it takes to address different types of online harm, potentially streamlining the current six to 48-hour response window.
The Online Safety (Relief and Accountability) Act (OSRAA) already mandates swift action, particularly for cases involving intimate images or videos shared without consent and certain child abuse material, which require action within six hours. Other forms of intimate image abuse and image-based child abuse warrant a 24-hour response, while incidents of online harassment, doxing, and stalking must be handled within 48 hours. Platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X, TikTok, Reddit, Telegram, and WeChat fall under this framework.
Efforts will also be made to simplify the reporting process for victims of online harm. This may involve integrating notification forms directly on platforms and limiting the information victims need to provide to what is reasonably necessary. Tong suggested that major platforms might establish dedicated channels, like specific email addresses, to facilitate easier reporting.
Additionally, the government is looking into solutions for situations where harmful content continues to circulate despite victims being unable to find the original posts. Cross-border issues involving perpetrators or platforms located overseas are also under consideration for more effective handling.
Since its inception in June, Singapore’s Online Safety Commission has received over 500 reports of online harms. The commission plays a crucial role in assisting victims by seeking the removal of harmful content and imposing restrictions on offending accounts within the legal framework.