Executive Summary
This article examines the intellectual property (IP) liability
of internet platforms in Singapore, focusing on user-generated
content (UGC) in e-commerce and social media. It contrasts the
legal landscape for trade mark and copyright infringement.
E-commerce platforms face risks related to trade mark
infringement through merchant listings and potential liability as
joint tortfeasors, highlighting the importance of implementing
effective takedown procedures, given that there is no statutory
safe habour under the Trade Marks Act. Social media platforms may
qualify for safe harbour protection under the Copyright Act as
Network Service Providers (NSPs), subject to conditions like
implementing notice-and-takedown mechanisms, avoiding direct
financial benefit from infringement, and registering with IPOS.
This note underscores the necessity for platforms to adopt
proactive measures to minimize IP liability and foster a legally
compliant online