Regulation on Collation and Use of Behavioural Data and Patterns by Online Platforms
Ministry of Digital Development and InformationSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the potential introduction of "do not track" legislation to regulate the collection and use of behavioural data by online platforms. MP Murali Pillai raised the query, prompting Minister for Communications and Information S Iswaran to clarify that these activities are already governed by the Personal Data Protection Act 2012. Minister S Iswaran noted that individuals can use existing browser tools, such as blocking cookies or browser extensions, to prevent unwanted tracking and profiling. He emphasized that while the Government encourages data-driven innovation in the Digital Economy, it remains committed to balancing these developments with robust privacy safeguards. Consequently, the Ministry and the Personal Data Protection Commission will continue to monitor the issue and take enforcement action against any assessed breaches of data regulations.
Transcript
2 Mr Murali Pillai asked the Minister for Communications and Information whether the Ministry sees a need to regulate in Singapore the collation and use of behavioural data and patterns from online platforms by introducing "do not track" legislation and, if not, why not.
Mr S Iswaran: Currently, some websites and online platforms track their users’ behaviour by collecting data on their browsing habits and activities, and use the data to serve targeted advertisements or improve browsing experiences.
Organisations should ensure that their collection, use and disclosure of users’ behavioural data comply with the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA). In the event of a complaint, the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) will investigate and take enforcement action if it assesses that there is a breach of the PDPA.
As Singapore’s Digital Economy develops, we envisage that businesses will increasingly leverage such data to offer better, more innovative products and services that are tailored to their users’ preferences. At the same time, we recognise public concerns over the widespread collection of personal data by online platforms, and the potential misuse of such data.
There are tools and mechanisms already available today that provide a balanced and effective approach to prevent the unwanted tracking of individuals. For example, individuals who are concerned with tracking may block and delete cookies, or use plugins and browser extensions to prevent websites from profiling them. They may also request not to be tracked when browsing a website. Most modern browsers come with such functionalities. The Media Literacy Council also provides tips on basic ways in which users can guard against online tracking.
MCI and PDPC will continue to monitor developments on this issue, and ensure that our policies continue to safeguard individuals’ interests while allowing data-driven innovation in the Digital Economy.