Adequacy of Laws to Protect Internet Users against Cyberbullying

Mr Zaqy Mohamad asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether the current laws are adequate to protect Internet users from being cyberbullied and their private information being used for intimidation or embarrassment; (b) whether the Ministry will consider consolidating or introducing specific laws to protect Internet users from cyberbullying and wrongful use of personal data for intimidation purposes; (c) what is the Ministry's position on the current law enforcement capability and resources to enforce rules against cyberbullying; (d) whether the Ministry will consider introducing Internet privacy laws and, if not, what are the limitations.

Mr Teo Chee Hean: There are currently no laws that specifically target cyberbullying. However, there are existing provisions under the Penal Code that can be applied. For instance, cyberbullying that amounts to criminal intimidation carries a jail term of up to two years and/or a fine. The maximum term of imprisonment could extend to 10 years for serious threats. These include threats to cause death or grievous hurt.

MHA, Ministry of Law and MICA are currently considering the need to target cyber bullying offences more explicitly. In addition, we are reviewing other criminal legislation to ensure that undesirable acts perpetrated via electronic means can similarly be punishable as criminal offences.

Besides criminal sanctions, a victim of cyberbullying may also obtain a civil injunction from the Court to restrain the perpetrator.

There are existing general laws that can apply to internet privacy infringement of a criminal nature, such as hacking and information theft. Separately, MICA is developing a general personal data protection law that will regulate how organisations collect, use and disclose personal data in Singapore.

In tandem, MHA is looking into how to overcome some of the enforcement challenges inherent in tackling Internet offences. These would include addressing how to track down perpetrators hiding behind the cover of anonymity, and addressing jurisdictional issues for cases where the perpetrator is overseas.

Page: 434

However, legislative changes and law enforcement are only part of the solution. Fundamentally, we should work together to foster a culture of responsible Internet use where each individual respects the rights and views of others in the online community.