IMDA and U.S. Federal Communications Commission signed MOU to combat scams

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) of Singapore and the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen cross-border efforts to combat unsolicited and unlawful communications including scams.

The MOU seeks to enhance cooperation in regulatory enforcement activities related to scams; and mutual information exchanges in areas such as regulatory frameworks and technical and policy solutions related to unsolicited and unlawful communications in Singapore and the United States. By working together and sharing strategic insights on scams, IMDA and FCC aim to combat the growing threat of scams, thereby mitigating the risk that citizens and businesses face from fraudulent activities. The MOU was signed by Mr Lew Chuen Hong, Chief Executive of IMDA, and Ms Jessica Rosenworcel, Chairwoman of the FCC, at a signing ceremony in Washington, D.C. on 11 October 2023.

Ms Jessica Rosenworcel, Chairwoman of the FCC, said, “Robocall scams do not respect international borders and are a problem for consumers and businesses around the world. It is critical that we work closely with partners like our colleagues in Singapore who share our commitment to fight robocall scams and unmasking the bad actors behind them. I thank Mr. Lew and his team for continuing our active and productive cooperative relationship. Together we will continue to make stopping illegal robocalls a top consumer protection priority.”

Both IMDA and FCC recognize the importance of developing a global and coordinated approach to address the growing threat of scams. This MOU builds on both FCC and IMDA's efforts to work with international regulators to combat scams coming through communication channels such as calls and mobile messaging. By collaborating with like-minded partners, both FCC and IMDA aims to enhance its anti-scam measures and protect citizens and businesses from fraudulent activities.