Under the new Code of Practice for Online Safety for App Distribution Services, app stores targeting users in Singapore must also block children below 12 from downloading apps like Instagram and TikTok, which are rated for ages 12 and above. App stores are also responsible for monitoring app content, and are required to review apps and updates before they are released.
This ensures harmful materials such as sexual or violent content and content related to cyber bullying, self-harm and vice, among others, are kept out of reach of children. As companies get to grips with the new rules, IMDA said it will engage app stores over the coming months on the implementation of age assurance measures.
Facial screening technology has been increasingly deployed in apps such as Instagram and French youth networking app Yubo, requiring users to take real-time footage of their face, which is analysed by an age verification tech company called Yoti. Alternatively, platforms can also rely on verified sources of identification, like a digital ID or credit card, to determine the age of a user, said IMDA. App stores that fail to implement the measures risk being blocked in Singapore under the Broadcasting Act.
It is yet to be seen how app stores will restrict apps with mature content for younger users. As part of their new obligations that kick in on March 31, app stores will also need to have channels that are easy for users to report apps with harmful content, and be accountable to users on the measures they have implemented in annual online safety reports.
Content and activity related to child sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as terrorism, in particular, must be removed or restricted, and the app provider in question banned, suspended or warned. The platform is also expected to keep users who report the matter informed of the action taken, unless the report is frivolous in nature or written to cause frustration. Digital Development and Information Minister Josephine Teo said on LinkedIn that the new code aims to ensure children can explore and learn with access to age-appropriate content.
