Spam is a complex, multi-faceted issue and there is no single solution against spam. Therefore, a multi-pronged policy approach is required to address spam related concerns from users. This includes public education (including the use of appropriate technology measures), industry self-regulation, spam control legislation and international cooperation. The multi-pronged approach serves as a concerted effort by the public and private sectors to address the issues and curb spam in Singapore.

Some of the initiatives launched under this approach are

1. Public Education
   
   A spam control website ( www.spamcontrol.org.sg ) has been launched to provide an information repository on spam control in Singapore for the public and industry. This website jointly developed by IDA, Pacific Internet, SingNet, StarHub, CASE, DMAS, SBF and SiTF provide visitors with general information about spam and resources for combating spam for both individuals and organisations. CASE and SBF also lend their support to the spam control initiative by educating the public and businesses on the proposed legal framework and spam control measures via their websites, workshops and electronic newsletters.
   
   
2. Industry Self-Regulation
   
   The three major Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Pacific Internet (PacNet), SingNet and StarHub, under the facilitation of IDA, have come together to set up spam control guidelines. These guidelines have been adopted jointly by the three ISPs to help reduce e-mail spam for their subscribers. The DMAS has launched an E-mail Marketing Code of Practice for its members.
   
   
3. Legislative Framework
   
   Legislation in the form of the Spam Control Act (Cap. 311A) has been put in place since June 2007 to control e-mail and mobile spam in Singapore. The Spam Control Act, which was the culmination of an extensive public review and consultation exercise, seeks to balance the legitimate interests and concerns of different groups such as consumers and ISPs on the one hand, and marketers on the other.
   
   View consultation papers here .
   
   
4. International Cooperation
   
   Spam is a global issue and Singapore cannot fight this battle alone. To extend Singapore's spam control efforts to international shores, IDA is committed to partake in international initiatives, including participation in global and regional fora such APEC, ITU, OECD and ASEAN.

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