Forum: Make online process for CPF nominations more user-friendly

Forum: Make online process for CPF nominations more user-friendly

https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/forum/forum-make-online-process-for-cpf-nominations-more-user-friendly

2025-06-26

I recently attempted to make my CPF nominations online with my son’s help, but the process proved unexpectedly frustrating.

After completing the required fields, we reached the facial authentication stage, only to encounter repeated failures due to a “Strong light detected” message.

Although it was daytime, we drew the curtains and took extra steps to reduce glare, carefully following on-screen prompts such as adjusting distance and positioning. Despite our efforts – and confirming that our laptop, webcam and wired internet connection were all functioning well – the system continued to reject the image. Eventually, we were met with an “Error 403” message and asked to start the entire process again.

Even though I had logged in via Singpass, all previously entered data was lost, and we had to retype everything from scratch.

Along the way, we encountered other issues: buttons had to be clicked twice, and drop-down menus sometimes shifted focus unexpectedly.

After multiple failed attempts, we had no choice but to give up.

As a senior with mobility issues who tries to limit unnecessary travel, I have yet to complete an online nomination successfully.

Facial authentication should be more adaptable to real-world conditions. Basic form data should also be saved as a draft to avoid the need to re-enter everything in case of errors. Singapore’s push towards digitalisation is commendable, but experiences like this risk leaving some behind.

Yeow Kam Hoow