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Singapore: IMDA publishes technical specifications for residential gateways (home routers) to enhance security

OCTOBER 2020 - ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS

On 12 October 2020, The Infocomm Media Development Authority (“IMDA”) published enhanced security requirements for new home routers sold in Singapore. The Technical Specifications will come into effect on 13 April 2021. Home routers previously approved by IMDA can continue to be sold until 12 October 2021.

In March 2020, IMDA announced its plan to set minimum security requirements for home routers, to secure Internet experience for users, and to strengthen the resilience of Singapore’s telecommunications networks. This is based on the background of deeper involvement of networked intelligent devices in homes, such as web cameras and baby monitors, which has translated into higher risks of cyber-attacks that target such devices. 

While users do not need to change their existing home routers, they are encouraged to purchase those which are compliant with IMDA’s cybersecurity requirements when they next upgrade their devices. They are also advised to continue to upgrade their firmware regularly. Wi-Fi home routers which comply with IMDA’s specifications qualify for Level 1 of the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore’s Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme. Users can look out for the label to ensure that they purchase home routers that are secure and compliant.

We are able to support on IMDA registration and client may start to apply as Residential Gateway (“RG”) devices from 2 November 2020.

For more information, please visit the official webpage.