Speech by Mr. Louis Ng Kok Kwang, MP for Nee Soon GRC at the Second Reading of the Computer Misuse and Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill [Bill No. 15/2016]
Introduction
Madam, I stand in support of this Bill.
We live in an increasingly connected world, but the internet has also created a multitude of opportunities for criminals to thrive.
Quite a few members of this House have recently had their Facebook identities stolen, and used to send phishing messages. I am sure that came as a rude shock, but at least my colleagues had the capacity to deal with the matter quickly. I fear, however, that many Singaporeans do not.
Strengthening our resilience to cybercrime
This Bill amends the Computer Misuse and Cybersecurity Act in 3 ways.
First, it recognises that sophisticated software in the hands of wrong people can be as dangerous as giving them physical weapons.
Second, it criminalises acts of cybercrime that originate physically outside our borders, but passed through or target computers within.
Third, it criminalises the use of personal data that has been obtained through hacks.
All three changes are necessary steps to build a society that is more resilient to cybercrime.
Clarification on clause 3 of the Bill
Madam, clause 3 of the Bill introduces the new section 8A which provides increased powers to the authorities. While this could be a needed move in light of the increased cyber attacks and misuse of information, I am concerned with the drafting of section 8A(6).
By way of background, section 8A(1) penalises people who use personal information that arise from the contravention of certain sections of the Act.
The new section 8A(6) removes the need for the prosecution to prove that any of those sections of the Act was contravened in order to prove that an offence under section 8A(1) was committed.
The prosecution is only required to prove that the perpetrator knows or has reason to believe that the relevant sections were contravened.
However, could a perpetrator truly and accurately know that one of the relevant sections was contravened at the time of the offence – what is the burden of proof required under this section?
Further, can the Minister clarify why a safe conviction could be achieved when the prosecution does not have to prove that a relevant section was contravened when section 8A(1) is premised on the contravention of these sections.
IT resilience for our pioneer generation
Next, I am concerned that there is a growing digital divide that is leaving our pioneer generation behind.
I have many elderly residents who do not know how to use a computer properly. Hence I am concerned that our elderly are vulnerable to cybercrime.
Anecdotes of the elderly falling victim to scams are plenty. In this regard, can there be a collaboration with the Pioneer Generation Office in relation to IT resilience for our pioneer generation?
Coordinated grassroots campaign on cyber security
Further, may I also suggest for coordinated grassroots campaigns in relation to cyber security be launched.
Under these campaigns, GRLs can reach out to the elderly on topics such as how to spot a phishing emails or messages, and how to protect themselves against cybercrime.
Conclusion
Madam, I stand in support of this Bill. I believe that as we continue to push towards being a smart and connected nation, we should not leave anyone behind and ensure that all of us are protected against cybercrimes.