Singapore anti-scam rules target WhatsApp, TikTok

Singapore began requiring major messaging and social media platforms to introduce new anti-scam safeguards on Tuesday, including restrictions on unknown contacts and identity checks for advertisers.

Police said the rules under the Online Criminal Harms Act apply to services considered to pose the highest scam risk in the country.

WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat, Apple iMessage, Apple FaceTime, Google Messages and Google Meet must obtain users' consent before unknown contacts can add them to groups or channels. They must also warn users about suspicious accounts and allow users to silence, filter or block communications.

Facebook, Instagram and TikTok will be required to block suspected scam advertisements, verify advertisers' identities against government records and ensure financial services advertised to Singapore users are offered by licensed providers.

E-commerce services including Carousell, Facebook Marketplace and Facebook Business must introduce stronger login safeguards. Platforms have until January 31, 2027, to comply, while measures against spoofing the Singapore government must be in place by the end of September.

Police said failure to comply could lead to financial penalties of up to 1 million Singapore dollars, or $782,500.