Regulators urge parents, platforms to jointly shield children from online harms

Authorities have called for a collaborative approach to online child safety, with parents and technology companies sharing responsibility for shielding minors from harmful material in the digital space.

The Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) has highlighted practical steps families can take to manage their children's online exposure. These include setting clear browsing boundaries, utilising parental control tools available on most devices and platforms, and maintaining open dialogue with children about their digital activities.

Platforms, meanwhile, are expected to implement robust content filters and age-appropriate safeguards on their services. IMDA stressed that technology companies must continue developing mechanisms to identify and limit access to unsuitable material, while also providing transparent reporting channels for users who encounter concerning content.

The regulator emphasised that neither families nor platforms can effectively protect children working in isolation. As digital consumption becomes increasingly central to childhood development in Singapore and across Southeast Asia, stakeholders are urged to strengthen existing partnerships and establish clearer standards for online safety.

Parents seeking additional resources can access guidance through IMDA's dedicated online safety portal, which provides age-specific recommendations and tool comparisons to help families make informed decisions about their children's digital environment.