JAKARTA - Singapore's Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) recently asked Meta to review and remove content on Facebook containing Child Sexual Exploitation Material (CSEM).
All CSEM content met by IMDA is claimed to be on Facebook pages and groups. After being asked, Meta then deleted it within 24 hours.
This is the first time IMDA has informed social media services about such content since the Singapore Broadcasting Act took effect on February 1, 2023.
"IMDA has also directed all internet service providers in Singapore to block websites linked to Facebook pages and groups, which allow for access and distribution of more CSEM content," IMDA said as quoted from the official website, Monday, June 12.
If Meta does not comply with the law, the company could be fined up to 1 million Singapore dollars or equivalent to Rp11 billion. Platforms can also be blocked in the country.
Singapore police first notified IMDA of the Facebook page, part of an online network facilitating sharing content on child sexual exploitation.
This led to the discovery of a Facebook group, which contained similar posts to hyperlinks that directed users to websites with such content.
Apart from CSEM, other materials deemed horrific according to the Singapore Broadcasting Law include supporting content, instructing physical violence, terrorism, and content that poses a public health risk in Singapore.
"Based on the amended law, the IMDA has the authority to direct social media services to block or remove dire content, and will not hesitate to provide direction to social media services if they do not immediately detect and remove dire content on their platforms," the IMDA said.
According to IMDA, social media companies must remain vigilant in identifying, preventing the spread of malicious online content through their services and platforms.
"Taking advantage of the threat of harmful online content is a global problem that requires the efforts of the entire community," said IMDA.
"The Singapore government has strengthened our regulatory framework and will continue its efforts to ensure that regulatory and public education measures can address the increasing number of malicious online content and protect Singaporean users from online harm," he added.
Finally, IMDA asks, social media services also have a responsibility to ensure online security for all users, especially children.
"We recognize that the industry has taken active steps in recent years to combat malicious online content on social media, and urge social media services to remain vigilant in detecting and prevent the spread of malicious online content through their platforms and services," said IMDA.
"This contribution is very important in establishing a more secure online space for users in Singapore. IMDA will continue to work closely with social media services to improve Singapore's online security," he added.
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