Singapore – Major mobile network operators (MNOs) in Singapore has assured the public of their compliance to Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA)’s Shared Responsibility Framework (SRF) for phishing scams. 

MAS and IMDA recently announced the implementation of the SRF, which assigns duties to financial institutions and telecommunication companies to address phishing scams. In a joint response, MNOs M1, Singtel, StarHub and SIMBA emphasises their collective adherence to protect its customers.

“The MNOs have already implemented the telco duties set out in the Shared Responsibility Framework (SRF). On top of these duties, the MNOs have also complied with other scam prevention measures such as stringent SIM card registration requirements and offering the option for subscribers to block international calls and SMS,” the statement read. 

The SRF holds network banks and telco liable for customers suffering from scams, requiring them to perform real-time fraud surveillance. If a customer is scammed, telcos may be expected to bear the losses if the guidelines are not followed.

The MNOs said they will collaborate with authorities to enforce measures and avoid scams. 

“In line with the SRF, the respective MNOs will review the eligibility of claims made, with consideration of fair recourse,” the joint statement read.

Earlier this year, the major MNOs have strengthened their anti-scam efforts by partnering with IMDA to allow their customers to block international mobile numbers.

MAS and IMDA is set to implement the SRF starting Dec. 16, 2024. The SRF was first published on Oct. 25, 2023 for a consultation, gathering responses from the public and business representatives.

Singapore – As part of its anti-scam measures, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has partnered with telcos Singtel, M1, StarHub, and SIMBA to allow mobile subscribers in Singapore to block calls from international numbers.

Starting January 5 onwards, Singaporean mobile users will have the option to subscribe to call blocking services offered by Singtel, M1, StarHub, and SIMBA. By opting in, all calls made from international numbers will automatically be blocked. On the other hand, calls made from Singapore numbers, including those using overseas roaming, will be received as per normal.

Subscribers using the service can also enable and disable the international number blocking option based on their needs, such as if they’re expecting international calls or when they’re travelling overseas.

This new service is part of IMDA’s multi-layered measures for fighting scammers, including those operating from overseas. IMDA has been working with several telcos to solve Singapore’s problem with international scam calls and messages.

Since 2023, the telcos have recorded more than 300 million scam calls, and approximately one in every four incoming calls from international numbers has been blocked for this period.

IMDA is also working with telcos on plans to extend the service by blocking SMS from international numbers as well.

In a press release, IMDA stated, “Combatting scams is a whole-of-society effort, and the public should continue to remain vigilant. The public should continue to exercise caution when receiving calls and SMS as scammers’ tactics continue to evolve. Scammers will continue to change their methods and tactics, and there is no foolproof measure even as we continue to monitor and implement additional safeguards.”

The statement continued, “IMDA will continue to work with other stakeholders in the fight against scams. A discerning public is the key in this fight, where consumers are individually alert and raise collective awareness by sharing scam prevention tips with friends and loved ones.”

Singapore – Advertising and public relations agency Publicis Groupe in Singapore is taking on a unique endeavour to show its commitment to sustainability and conservation. The communications firm has recently announced the symbolic adoption of Simba, a two-and-a-half-year-old African Lion, at the Singapore Zoo. 

The agency has long been championing conservation and sustainability. In 2020, it formed a Space, Sustainability, Cohesion, and Wellness community, and across 2021 and 2022, it achieved the Singapore Environment Council’s Eco-Office certifications for its office spaces. This time, it takes a stride in being an inspiring example for wildlife conservation. 

The choice to adopt a lion goes back to how the animal has always been a key part of Publicis Groupe’s visual identity, with the head of a majestic lion embedded in its Logo. 

“So, when the time came to think about how the team could play a role in wildlife conservation, adopting Simba felt like a natural fit,” said the agency in Singapore. 

During the adoption ceremony at the Singapore Zoo, Publicis Groupe Singapore was presented with a certificate of adoption and unveiled a commemorative plaque. The leadership team were also joined by employees and their families who were part of the adoption ceremony. Further to this, the agency shared how they were engaged through an interactive session with Simba’s keeper, who shared insights into the lion’s birth, personality, and dedication required to care for him.

Following such initiative, Publicis Groupe Singapore will be offering employees more opportunities to visit Singapore Zoo and learn about Simba and other animals that call the wildlife park home. The intent is to help employees and families to gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of wildlife conservation and a sense of pride in being part of a company that values conservation. 

“Our adoption of Simba reflects our shared responsibility to protect the planet’s precious resources and understand the importance of wildlife conservation,” said Amrita Randhawa, CEO of Publicis Groupe Singapore & Southeast Asia. “We are proud to support Mandai Wildlife Group’s conservation efforts and honoured to be part of Simba’s future – he already feels like a part of the team!” 

Publicis Groupe’s Simba is the first lion cub in Singapore that was conceived via assisted reproduction at the Mandai Wildlife Group’s Wildlife Healthcare and Research Centre. As the only offspring of his father, Mufasa, Simba plays an important role in contributing to the genetic diversity and sustainability of African Lion populations in zoological institutions. Publicis Groupe Singapore’s adoption will boost ongoing efforts to ensure its health and well-being.