In Singapore, an online analysis [1] updated on 1 st September revealed that pornography streaming sites were the 5 th 11 th , 12 nd and 13 th most visited sites, even ranking above popular sites Instagram and Whatsapp.
But exactly how legal is it to access these sites? This article will examine the general legality of pornography in Singapore. Obscene images are images whether moving or still meant to sexually arouse, usually containing nudity, sexual images or sexual acts.
Media, films, books or any digital files that contain these are considered pornographic material. The Films Act [2] , Undesirable Publications Act [3] and the Penal Code [4] have provisions making it illegal to make, keep, distribute, or sell pornographic material.
Section 29 of the Films Act governs the offence of dealings in obscene films. This is applicable to those attempting to profit from or spread obscene films to others. Section 30 of the Films Act governs the possession of obscene films. This is applicable to those who keep physical or digital pornographic videos or images in any device or storage devices. If caught with a small number of films are purely for personal use, a small fine will usually be imposed instead of imprisonment.
It also helps if the accused is a first-time offender, and the accused pleads guilty to the offence. The courts do not appear to be too concerned with possession of pornography for personal use, but if one is found in possession of a large number of films, one would still be fined accordingly. In the case of PP v. That being said, in most cases, these individuals who were caught with, and charged for possession of pornography, were actually being investigated for other charges unrelated to pornography.
