Unsolicited commercial messages sent in bulk – that’s what spam is. Such messages could be sent via mobile telephony systems or electronic mail (e-mail). Spam typically advertises or promotes goods or services, which may also include land, business opportunity or investment opportunities.

It is a growing concern for Internet users and now accounts for as much as 73 per cent of e-mails worldwide, according to MessageLabs, an e-mail security and management company.

Although spam transcends national boundaries, Singapore, as an Infocomm Technology hub, has in place measures to keep it in check. Public education and technical countermeasures act as the first line of defence.

Legislation, expected to be introduced later in 2007, serves as the overarching framework for spam control here.

A group of strategic partners, led by the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore, have come together to offer this resource site to equip the public with the necessary knowledge and tools to control spam. The partners are: the three major local Internet Service Providers (Pacific Internet, SingNet,StarHub), the Singapore IT Federation (SiTF), the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE), the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), and the Direct Marketing Association of Singapore (DMAS). Each of these organisations also run their own spam control programmes that addresses issues specific to their audiences.

Through this resource site, you will get a thorough tutorial on Singapore’s approach towards spam control, with many FAQs to address your concerns. You will also find listings of other spam control resources around the world.

Help for Consumers

Help for Businesses

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 keep finding ways to outsmart technological means to control it. 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.

There is no single perfect solution. However,there are many good solutions out there, and we hope that the information on this website can provide you with useful and practical tips in helping you manage the spam in your mailbox.