The Singapore Government is collaborating with major online platforms to expedite responses to harmful online content, Law Minister Edwin Tong announced on September 23. This initiative aims to provide quicker relief to victims by reducing the response time required under the current Online Safety (Relief and Accountability) Act (OSRAA).
Presently, platforms have between six and 48 hours to address different types of online harm once notified. The Government’s plan to shorten these periods is part of an effort to better adapt to the OSRAA framework. Immediate action, within six hours, is mandated for straightforward cases involving the non-consensual sharing of intimate images or videos, as well as certain child abuse content. More complex cases, such as online harassment and doxing, allow for up to 48 hours for a response.
The OSRAA framework applies to a range of popular services including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X, TikTok, Reddit, Telegram, and WeChat. In addition to faster response times, measures to simplify the reporting of online harms are also being considered. This includes potentially allowing reports to be filed directly through the platforms and ensuring the information required from victims is minimal yet sufficient.
Minister Tong highlighted that major platforms might set up dedicated reporting channels, such as specific email addresses, to streamline the process for users. Efforts are also underway to address situations where harmful content persists despite the removal of the original post, as well as handling cases involving overseas perpetrators.
Since the launch of Singapore’s Online Safety Commission in June, over 500 reports of online harm have been received. The commission plays a critical role in assisting victims with content removal and enforcing restrictions on offending accounts, leveraging the new legal framework for enhanced online safety.