Rising Harmful Content on Social Media Alarms Singapore

A recent government survey reveals a significant spike in harmful content encounters by Singaporeans on social media. Cyberbullying and sexual content continue to be the most common, but there is a notable rise in racial, religious, and violent content. MDDI urges all stakeholders to work together for a safer online environment.

A government survey has found that Singaporeans are increasingly facing harmful content on social media platforms.

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) reported a significant rise in content inciting racial or religious tension, as well as violent content, in addition to the persistent issues of cyberbullying and sexual content.

The survey, involving 2,098 respondents aged 15 and above, indicated that 74 percent encountered harmful content online, with social media platforms being the primary source. MDDI emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among the government, industry, and users to ensure a safer online environment.

(With inputs from agencies.)