Singapore calls for quicker response from social media platforms on harmful content

SINGAPORE -- Social media platforms must respond more effectively and promptly to user reports, as most currently take an average of five days or longer to act, according to Singapore's Ministry of Digital Development and Information.

In response to a parliamentary question on the impact of delayed content removal on children, the ministry noted that in many cases, content violating community guidelines remained accessible even after being reported.

A recent government assessment of six designated social media services revealed shortcomings in user safety measures, particularly on X and HardwareZone. The assessment found that these platforms frequently failed to enforce their own community guidelines, exposing children to inappropriate content.

Even for platforms that performed better in this area, such as Facebook and YouTube, "children could still access some age-inappropriate content," the ministry said.

A recent report released by Singapore's Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) highlighted concerns about online safety. It found that "children's accounts on X could easily access explicit adult sexual content," with similar risks identified on Facebook, YouTube and HardwareZone.

Online safety remains a key focus for the Singaporean government. In July 2023, Singapore introduced the Code of Practice for Online Safety, requiring designated social media platforms to minimize exposure to harmful content and improve reporting tools.

In January 2025, the government expanded these efforts by introducing the Code of Practice for Online Safety for App Distribution Services, which mandates age assurance measures for app platforms. This new code will take effect on March 31.

The IMDA will review social media platforms' responses when their next annual online safety reports are due in June 2025.