Feeling harassed or threatened isn’t just unpleasant; it can affect your peace of mind, your job, and even your relationships. Whether it happens in person or online, harassment is real, and it deserves real solutions. That’s where the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) comes in.
If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of repeated messages, hurtful online comments, or even threatening behaviour, you should know there’s a law in Singapore that gives you the right to take action. And you don’t have to wait for things to get worse before doing something about it.
What Is The Protection From Harassment Act (POHA)?
The Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) is a Singapore law that was introduced in 2014 and later strengthened in 2019. It aims to protect people from various forms of harassment, whether physical, verbal or digital. It covers stalking, online bullying, threats, and even false statements posted publicly.
The law applies to everyone, including individuals, companies and organisations. It doesn’t matter if the person harassing you is a stranger or someone you know. What matters is that their behaviour has crossed the line and is causing you distress.
What Kind Of Harassment Is Covered In The Protection From Harassment Act?
The Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) doesn’t just deal with obvious or aggressive behaviour. Harassment can be subtle, repeated or even digital. What really matters is how the behaviour affects you. If it causes you to feel alarmed, distressed or threatened, it may be covered under POHA.
Here are some common examples of harassment under the Act:
Repeated, Unwanted Contact
This includes calls, messages, emails or social media contact that continues even after you’ve asked the person to stop. It can be from someone you know or a complete stranger.
Cyberbullying Or Online Harassment
Hurtful comments, public shaming or threats made through social media platforms, forums or messaging apps may fall under harassment. Even if the harasser hides behind a fake account, their actions are still taken seriously under the law.
Threats Or Intimidation
If someone threatens to harm you, your loved ones or your property, that behaviour could be harassment. It does not need to be physical. The fear it causes is enough.
Stalking Or Following You Around
Someone consistently showing up where you are, monitoring your movements or keeping tabs on your activities may be considered stalking. POHA recognises how disturbing this can be.
False Statements That Harm Your Reputation
If someone publishes lies about you online or offline, and those lies damage your image or cause distress, you have the right to take legal action.
Sexual Harassment Or Offensive Remarks
Unwelcome sexual comments, suggestive behaviour or repeated remarks about your appearance are also considered harassment under POHA.
What Can You Do If You’re Harassed?
If you are being harassed, you don’t need to wait for things to escalate before seeking help. The Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) gives you several ways to protect yourself.
Here’s what you can do:
- Apply For A Protection Order (PO)
A Protection Order is a Court order that tells the harasser to stop the offending behaviour. It may also include directions to stop contacting you or remove harmful content. - Request An Expedited Protection Order (EPO)
If you feel there is an urgent threat, you can apply for an EPO. This provides immediate protection while your full Protection Order application is being considered. - Make A Police Report
If the harassment involves threats of violence or criminal conduct, the police can investigate. In some cases, the harasser may be charged and prosecuted. - Apply For A Stop Publication Order
If false or harmful content about you has been posted online, you can ask the Court to order its removal. You may also request that the person be barred from publishing similar statements in future. - Use The Protection From Harassment Court (PHC)
This is a specialised Court created to handle harassment cases. The process is more straightforward and user-friendly, especially for those applying without a lawyer. - Consider Civil Claims For Damages
If the harassment has affected your mental health, career or relationships, you may also claim compensation for the harm caused.
What If The Harassment Happens Online?
Online harassment can feel just as overwhelming, if not more so, than harassment in real life. In today’s world, it takes only seconds for someone to post something harmful, and once it’s out there, the damage can spread quickly. Thankfully, the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) in Singapore recognises this and offers protection for both online and offline situations.
Some examples of online harassment include:
- Sending repeated, unwanted messages through WhatsApp, Telegram or social media DMs
- Posting insulting or threatening comments on your Facebook or Instagram posts
- Sharing edited or false photos of you without your consent
- Creating fake accounts to stalk, impersonate or humiliate you
- Uploading your personal information online with the intention of causing fear or harm
- Starting or spreading online rumours that damage your reputation
It does not matter if the person is anonymous or hiding behind a fake username. The Court can still take action. In fact, POHA allows you to apply for a Stop Publication Order that forces the harasser or even third-party platforms to remove harmful content. In more serious cases, the police may also investigate and charge the offender under criminal provisions in the Act.
What makes online harassment particularly stressful is the feeling of helplessness. The content feels permanent, and the reach can be wide. But the law is designed to protect victims like you.
You can apply for a Protection Order through the Protection from Harassment Court, which handles such cases more efficiently. This can help you get faster relief, including removing offensive content and stopping further contact from the harasser.
Conclusion About Singapore’s Protection From Harassment Act (POHA)
The Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) was put in place to protect people like you. Whether the harassment is happening at work, home or online, you deserve safety and respect.
If you’re unsure what to do next, reach out to Tembusu Law, home to the best criminal lawyers in Singapore, and let us help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Contact us today for a free consultation. You don’t have to face this alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Singapore’s Protection from Harassment Act (POHA)
Can I Apply For A Protection Order Without A Lawyer?
Yes, you can apply through the Protection from Harassment Court. The process is designed to be accessible even without legal representation, though having a lawyer helps with complex cases.
Does POHA Cover Harassment By Someone I Know?
Yes, POHA applies regardless of your relationship with the harasser. Whether it’s a co-worker, ex-partner, friend, or family member, you can still seek protection.
How Quickly Can I Get A Protection Order?
If there is an urgent need, the Court may issue an Expedited Protection Order within days. This offers temporary protection until the full hearing.
Can I Use POHA Against Cyberbullying Or Online Posts?
Absolutely. The law covers online harassment, including false statements, cyberbullying and threatening behaviour on digital platforms.
