UK Porn Age Checks Raise Privacy Concerns

Source: BBC News - Link to Article

The UK government is introducing new internet safety laws aimed at protecting children online, but concerns about privacy have been raised. According to the proposed Online Safety Bill, platforms that publish or allow pornographic content will be required to implement age verification measures. However, digital rights groups are questioning the transparency and data collection methods associated with these tools.

Under the amendments, user-to-user platforms like social media sites will have to use “highly effective” age-checking technologies to identify if a user is a child. This can include methods like estimating age from a selfie or checking official identification or bank statements. Despite the government’s assertion that the bill is flexible, critics argue that people’s privacy may not be adequately safeguarded.

Dr. Monica Horten from Open Rights Group expresses concerns about the introduction of age assurance technology, particularly the potential risks associated with private companies collecting large amounts of children’s biometric data without proper governance structures. The storage, access, and processing of such data remain unclear.

The bill grants communications regulator Ofcom the power to fine tech companies, block access to websites, and impose criminal liabilities on executives who fail to comply. However, there are calls for better enforcement powers to address the large number of adult websites.

Critics also fear that the requirement for official documentation may result in discrimination against socio-economic groups with limited access to such documents. Tech Minister Paul Scully assures that sexual health education content will not be blocked and that Ofcom will determine guidelines for content availability to those under 18.

The Online Safety Bill aims to strike a balance between protecting social media users, especially children, from harmful content while preserving free speech. It also holds top executives accountable for ensuring platform safety, potentially leading to jail time for non-compliant tech bosses.

The bill is still subject to potential changes and is scheduled for a vote in the House of Lords next week. The tech industry, including companies like Apple, has voiced concerns about provisions that could compromise end-to-end encryption in order to scan for child abuse material.

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