Singapore (CU)_ Singapore and Australia have inked a cooperation pact to tackle scams and spam. According to the latest joint statement issued by the two agencies, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was inked between the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) of Singapore and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
The memorandum of understanding covers collaboration in major areas, including the exchange of information and aid with investigations involving frauds, spam calls, and short messaging services. In addition, they pledged to share information, skills, and experience and work closely on technological and financially viable solutions associated with scam and spam communications.
According to the joint statement, “Scam and unsolicited commercial electronic messages and calls are an international problem with scammers continuing to prey on unsuspecting and innocent parties”. It added, “Both Singapore and Australia recognise the importance of developing a global and coordinated approach to address these threats and for different stakeholders to work together.”
Lew Chuen Hong, the chief executive of IMDA, and Nerida O’ Loughlin, the head of ACMA, signed the agreement. The MOU was signed in conjunction with the Australia-Singapore Digital Economy Agreement and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership declaration by the prime ministers of Australia and Singapore, which aims to strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation and improve the economic integration of Australia and Singapore.
According to Mr Lew, “The MOU is an important step to address global issues that do not respect geographical boundaries, such as harm perpetrated by scams”. According to Ms O’Loughlin, “Almost every Australian is impacted by unwanted calls, SMS and emails, and we know that many of our international colleagues are dealing with the same issues”. He added, “This agreement will see us building stronger ties with our Singaporean counterparts to crack down on unsolicited calls and messages, particularly when cross-border issues are involved.”
