Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on How has Police Incorporated Artificial Intelligence into its Enforcement Work

Question:

Mr Desmond Choo: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs (a) how has the Singapore Police Force incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) into its enforcement work; (b) whether this has led to improved outcomes; and (c) what is the future role of AI in policing.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law:

1. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has been leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its capabilities and operational effectiveness.

2. For example, it has used AI in its efforts against child sexual abuse materials.

3. Investigators use an AI programme to sieve out possible obscene materials from seized devices. This allows investigators to perform digital forensic analysis more efficiently.

4. Another example is the ScamShield Bot on WhatsApp, which uses AI to help users determine whether WhatsApp messages they receive are likely to be scam messages.

5. The SPF will continue to work with partners, such as the Home Team Science and Technology Agency and the Government Technology Agency, to experiment and leverage AI for its mission.