SINGAPORE - Residents in the Jalan Besar and Tanjong Pagar districts will be the first to receive the free TraceTogether tokens from Monday (Sept 14). This nationwide exercise will be rolled out to other Singapore residents progressively.

While it is not mandatory to collect the token, everyone who wants a token will be issued one.

Here are some things you need to know about the contact tracing devices.

1. How can I collect my token?

Visit token.gowhere.gov.sg and key in your postal code for the details. People who want to collect their tokens before distribution starts in their district can visit any active collection site to do so.

2. Is my token waterproof?

The token is water-resistant but not waterproof. Treat it as you would treat your mobile phone. That is, do not drop it from a height, immerse it in water, or place it near fire.

3. If I collect the TraceTogether token, do I still need the TraceTogether app?

You can use either the app or the token. The token was designed for people who do not want to install the TraceTogether app, or are not comfortable using a smartphone.

4. How does the token work?

Users can carry the TraceTogether token in a bag or in their pocket, since it is a small device.

The token exchanges short-distance Bluetooth signals with nearby tokens or handsets that have the TraceTogether app, and this interaction is logged into the devices.

All logs are encrypted and logs older than 25 days will be automatically erased.

If the user becomes infected with Covid-19, the device will need to be physically handed over to the authorities to extract the data needed for contact tracing.

5. Can my child collect a token?

Yes, as long as they are aged seven and above.

6. I am not a Singapore citizen. Can I still collect a token?

Yes, as long as you are a resident here. This includes pass holders.

7. Can I extract the data collected by my TraceTogether token? What if someone steals my token to do so?

No, you will not be able to extract data captured by the token. The data is encrypted and no personal identifiable information is stored on the token, so even if someone steals your token, they will not be able to make sense of the data.

8. What do I do if I have lost my token? What if the token is damaged?

You can get it replaced at any community centre or club where token distribution has started. If you have lost your token, you will not be charged for the first replacement.

9. Whom can I contact if I need help with my token?

Users who require assistance with their tokens can e-mail support@tracetogether.gov.sg or call 6973-6511. The hotline is operational on weekdays, from 9am to 6pm.

Additional reporting by Jessie Lim