In more detail
Guo Wengui ("Guo") is reportedly the central figure in a network of interrelated media entities and social media accounts that disseminate disinformation. Between 17 April and 10 May 2024, a network of 92 social media accounts across the five social media platforms published, in a coordinated manner, over 120 posts containing videos on Singapore's leadership transition. These accounts, which the MHA has determined are linked to Guo, alleged that Singapore was controlled by a foreign actor who significantly influenced the selection of Singapore's fourth-generation leader.
Accordingly, the MHA issued the Account Restriction Directions to the five platforms, requiring them to block the 95 accounts from being accessible to Singapore end-users. This is the first time that such directions have been issued.
In the MHA's view, there are grounds to believe that Guo's network can harness these accounts to launch hostile information campaigns targeted directly at Singapore. In particular, the MHA has considered that the conditions of Section 21(1) of the Foreign Interference (Countermeasures) Act 2021 are satisfied. These conditions are as follows:
- The minister suspects or has reason to believe that a person is engaging in conduct in Singapore (broadly speaking) with the intention of preparing for, or planning to undertake, online communications activity by or on behalf of a foreign principal.
- The minister has reason to believe that, as a result of the online communications activity, information or material is likely to be published in Singapore.
- The minister is of the opinion that it is in the public interest to authorise the Account Restriction Direction(s). "Public interest" is defined broadly to expressly include Singapore's security, the prevention of a diminution of public confidence, or the prevention of any foreign interference directed towards a political end in Singapore.
Key takeaways
In light of the fact that online misinformation is increasingly widespread globally, the issuance of these directions indicates the Singapore government's strong stance against misinformation that directly impacts the public interest in Singapore. It is a reminder to understand the importance of social media posts, whether for business or personal use, and their potential impact on the public interest.
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For further information and to discuss what this might mean for you, please get in touch with your usual Baker McKenzie contact.
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