New Law to Address Child Safety Online: Preventing Nude Image Sharing
The government has announced plans to introduce a new law targeting tech firms, aiming to prevent children from taking or sharing nude images on mobile devices.
Background
- In June, Apple and Google were given a three-month deadline to block access to nude content on smartphones and other devices used by under-18s.
- Despite their commitments, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy MP stated that the current proposals from these tech giants do not adequately address the issue.
Government’s Approach:
- The government aims to legislate as soon as possible but is open to reassessing if tech firms develop and implement solutions sooner.
- The draft legislation will require tech firms to block nudity on devices used by children at the device level.
- Additionally, it will mandate app providers catering to children to introduce similar blocks on nude imagery.
Tech Company Responses:
- Apple: Implemented the Communication Safety feature in 2021 to prevent children from seeing or sharing explicit content, with continuous enhancements since.
- Google: Claims to be an industry leader in combating non-consensual intimate imagery and advancing child safety across its products. They are pleased with progress made and remain committed to keeping children safe online.
Support for Government’s Action:
- Organizations and charities, including the NSPCC and Molly Rose Foundation, have welcomed the government’s proposals, emphasizing the urgency of preventing children from capturing and sharing nudity on smartphones.
- Ofcom data suggests a growing trend of younger UK children owning smartphones, making this issue increasingly relevant.
- Police chiefs have previously highlighted that restricting nude image sharing capabilities can significantly prevent sextortion and other online child sexual abuse forms.
Call for Swift Action:
While the proposed legislation is a step in the right direction, the NSPCC’s Chris Sherwood stressed the need for swift implementation to avoid further delays.
