Unsolicited communications or spam refers to emails or mobile messages that advertise products and services to a large group of recipients without their prior request or consent.
IMDA, as the regulator of the telecom industry, regulates the behaviour of telecom service providers. IMDA, however, does not regulate the behaviour of end users of telecom services, including those who send electronic messages or make telephone calls.
SPAM
Spam is unsolicited commercial electronic messages sent in bulk. Such messages could be sent via mobile telephony systems or electronic mail (e-mail). Spam typically advertises or promotes goods or services, land, business opportunities or investment opportunities.
Although spam transcends national boundaries, Singapore, as an Infocomm Technology hub, has put in place measures to keep it in check. Public education and technical countermeasures act as the first line of defence.
Spam control is challenging for a few key reasons. Its global nature means local measures will not be sufficient. It is challenging because spammers will find ways to outsmart technological means to control spam. Also, it is impossible to classify every spam as such, since some recipients welcome them as a means of keeping tabs on offers and promotions in the market.
Nuisance/Prank Calls
Nuisance calls encompass any type of unwanted, unsolicited telephone call. Common types of nuisance calls include prank calls, malicious calls, telemarketing calls and silent calls. Such cases may be referred to service providers for value added solutions to block or trace calls, or to the relevant authorities if the content is offensive or contains elements of threat.
More information on spam and nuisance/prank calls matters can be found through these links:
- Spam Control Framework
- Guides for Consumers
- Best Practices for Organisations
- Terminology
Telemarketing Calls and Messages
The Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) regulates the sending of telemarketing messages under the Do Not Call (DNC) Provisions in Part IX of the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA). The DNC Provisions generally prohibit organisations from sending certain unsolicited marketing messages (in the form of voice calls, fax or text messages) to Singapore telephone numbers, including mobile, fixed-line, residential and business numbers, that are listed on the DNC Registry.
More information on DNC Registry can be found through these links:
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