Peers pass controversial Online Safety Bill aimed at social media firms

Peers Pass Controversial Online Safety Bill Aimed at Holding Social Media Firms Accountable

In a landmark decision, peers have passed a controversial new law aimed at making social media firms more responsible for users’ safety on their platforms. The Online Safety Bill, which has been years in the making, will now force firms to remove illegal content and protect children from harmful material.

The bill, nearly 300 pages long, will introduce new rules requiring pornography sites to verify the ages of users to prevent children from accessing explicit content. Additionally, platforms will need to demonstrate their commitment to removing illegal content, including child sexual abuse, extreme violence, and promoting terrorism.

While the focus has often been on reining in Big Tech, government figures have indicated that over 20,000 small businesses will also need to comply with the new regulations. The bill also includes provisions for new offenses such as cyber-flashing and the sharing of “deepfake” pornography.

Children’s charity the NSPCC has praised the law, stating that it will create a safer online environment. However, critics argue that the bill gives too much power to regulators and tech companies to control online speech.

The bill’s journey to becoming law has been lengthy and contentious, with the government committing to improving internet safety six years ago. The bill was inspired by the idea of enhancing online safety, with experts like Prof Lorna Woods and William Perrin playing a key role in its development.

Online safety campaigners have emphasized the importance of the bill in preventing harm caused by harmful online content. Ian Russell, whose daughter took her own life after viewing disturbing content online, highlighted the need for measures to protect vulnerable users.

Despite the bill’s well-meaning intentions, some legal experts have raised concerns about its potential impact on freedom of expression. Lawyer Graham Smith described the legislation as “deeply misconceived” and warned of potential challenges in court.

Following royal assent, the responsibility for enforcing the bill will fall to the communications regulator Ofcom. The regulator will have the power to impose fines of up to £18m on non-compliant firms, with executives facing the possibility of imprisonment in some cases.

Overall, the passage of the Online Safety Bill marks a significant milestone in the UK’s efforts to create a safer online environment. The success of the bill will not only impact the safety of children and adults but also the country’s reputation as a tech hub. As the bill comes into effect, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its impact on online safety and freedom of expression.