Singapore introduced new anti-scam rules on August 17 requiring major social media platforms Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to verify advertisers targeting users in the country. The platforms must implement these measures by January 31, 2027, under updated Codes of Practice issued by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) as part of the Online Criminal Harms Act (OCHA).
The new regulations cover several large online services including WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat, Apple iMessage, Google Messages, and Facebook Marketplace. The rules require platforms to verify advertiser details against government-issued records, restrict suspicious contacts and advertisements, and enhance account security. These steps respond to a rise in scams using social media ads, messaging apps, and video conferencing services in Singapore.
In 2025, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok accounted for about 30% of reported scam cases in Singapore, with Facebook alone responsible for 18%. WhatsApp and Telegram combined accounted for 23% of scam cases. The government aims to reduce scams by holding platforms accountable for verifying advertisers and monitoring suspicious activity on their services.
The SPF’s updated Codes of Practice under OCHA set a January 31, 2027 deadline for compliance. Platforms must verify advertisers targeting Singapore users by cross-checking details with government records to curb fraudulent advertisements and protect consumers.