9/18/2019
Singapore | Global Network Initiative
computer or computer service (s. 15A(2)(c)) [emphasis added]; and
• order a report of a breach or an attempted breach of security to be provided
relating to any computer controlled or operated by the specified person (s.
15A(2)(d)).
Again, this could, for example, be used to listen to individuals’ phone calls
without their knowledge in real-time. However given that this would be
conducted covertly by the Singapore government, there is little publicly
available information on the exercise of such powers in practice.
Punishments for failing to comply with any request under section 15A CMCA
can result in fines of up to SG$50,000 or to imprisonment for a term not
exceeding 10 years or both.
The powers under the CMCA are broadly drafted and are supported by section
14 of CMCA which states nothing in the CMCA shall prohibit a police officer, an
authorised person within section 39 of the CPC or any other duly authorised
law enforcement officer from lawfully conducting investigations pursuant to
the powers conferred on them under any written law. Section 16 of the CMCA
further provides that any police officer may arrest without warrant any person
reasonably suspected of committing an offence under the CMCA.
Disclosure of Communications Data
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT
Section 59 of the TA states that the IMDA may order any person to produce any
document or information for the purposes of an investigation. This would
include the content of messages and the metadata surrounding it.
Powers of production are replicated in the Telecom Competition Code (“TCC”).
At 11.6 of the TCC telecom operators, as well as certain other businesses
operating in the telecommunications sector, may be required to produce
specified documents or information as determined by the IMDA. Under this
provision, the IMDA is also entitled to physically inspect accounts, documents,
records, facilities and operations.
The penalties of non-compliance under the TCC are set out at 11.4.4 and
broadly track those discussed above under section 58 of the TA – i.e. fines of up
to 10% of global turnover or SG$1 million. In addition, under 11.4.5 of the TCC,
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