Singapore mandates advertiser verification for social media platforms

Singapore is tightening its online regulations by introducing new anti-scam requirements for major social media, messaging, and e-commerce platforms. Companies like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok must verify advertisers targeting Singaporean users and implement measures to restrict suspicious contacts and advertisements. These rules aim to combat the growing trend of scams that increasingly leverage online advertising and messaging applications.

The new codes of practice mandate that social media platforms must verify advertisers by checking their details against official government records. They are also required to block advertisements for financial products or services unless the advertiser is authorized by a relevant Singaporean authority. Platforms must also actively identify and remove scam advertisements, including those that use techniques like URL cloaking to hide the actual destination website.

Messaging services such as WhatsApp and Telegram face new rules regarding unknown contacts. User consent will be required before an unknown contact can add individuals to groups or channels. Services must also offer tools to filter or block messages and calls from unknown numbers and provide warnings for suspicious communications. Measures against impersonation of government authorities are also being strengthened.

E-commerce platforms, including Carousell and Facebook Marketplace, will see enhanced security requirements. This includes stronger login checks for new devices and safeguards against scam advertisements, similar to those imposed on social media. Singapore previously introduced similar codes in June 2024, which contributed to a decrease in reported scam cases. However, authorities note that scammers continuously adapt their methods, necessitating ongoing regulatory adjustments.