Gov’t regulates app distribution services to better protect children

It will take effect on 31 March.

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has issued a Code of Practice for Online Safety for App Distribution Services (ADSs) which will require ADSs to have system-level measures to protect children from harmful content, effective 31 March.

This will include Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Huawei App Gallery, Microsoft Store and Samsung Galaxy Store. These ADSs will also have to submit an implementation plan to IMDA.

Before the launch of the Code, IMDA had conducted a public consultation in October 2024, where ADSs were also able to provide their feedback.

In 2023, IMDA issued a Code of Practice for Online Safety requiring social media services to minimise access to harmful content, provide users with easy-to-use reporting, and provide transparency on their measures and safety levels in their online safety reports which are assessed annually.

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