Government will work with designated online platforms to respond faster to online harms
Law Minister Edwin Tong outlined how the Government has room to make the process for victims to notify online platforms about online harms faster and easier.
The Singapore government plans to collaborate with designated online platforms to expedite responses to victims of online harms, such as removing offending content or banning perpetrators, according to Law Minister Edwin Tong. This new legal framework aims to provide quicker redress and better protection for those affected. Tong emphasized that even a slight reduction in response time, like an extra hour, can be crucial when harmful content circulates online.
Previously, online platforms had to respond within six to 48 hours of being notified under the Online Safety (Relief and Accountability) Act (OSRAA), which was enacted in 2025. Tong mentioned that while speed is vital, platforms needed time to adapt to the new framework. The government is exploring ways to streamline the process for victims to report online harms, including simplifying forms and providing dedicated channels for reporting.
The Straits Times reported that victims of online harms have suggested improvements, such as reducing form filling. Currently, platforms must respond within six hours for certain types of content, like intimate images or child abuse material, shared online without consent. The government aims to make it easier for victims to send these notices to platforms, including offering a designated email address.
Additionally, the government is addressing challenges like serving legal documents to overseas perpetrators or platforms, ensuring accountability regardless of location.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
