Green Paper proposes crackdown on Internet dangers (UK)

12/10/2017

Tech and digital start-ups will get technical help to build safety features into new apps and products under one of the measures proposed by the government to crack down on internet dangers such as cyber bullying, trolling, and under-age access to pornography in order to make Britain “the safest place in the world to be online”.

‘Internet Safety Strategy green paper’ also includes proposals for

an industry-wide levy so social media companies and communication service providers contribute to the costs of raising awareness and countering internet harms
a new social media code of practice to see a joined-up approach to remove or address bullying, intimidating or humiliating online content
an annual internet safety transparency report to show progress on addressing abusive and harmful content and conduct

While acknowledging that the internet has ‘been an amazing force for good’, the paper flags up a wealth of research to show that it has also caused ‘undeniable’ suffering and can be an especially harmful place for children and vulnerable people – for example

Ofcom reported in November 2016 (‘Children and parents: media use and attitudes report’) that in the past year, almost one fifth of 12-15 year olds encountered something online that they ‘found worrying or nasty in some way’
64% of 13 to 17 year olds have seen images or videos offensive to a particular group (‘Power of Image Report’)
half of UK adult internet users say they have concerns about what is on the internet (‘Adults’ media use and attitudes’)

As the current generation of children is the first to learn about relationships and sex online, the strategy also outlines the crucial role that education will play in raising online safety awareness, with a particular focus on children and parents achieved through proposed measures such as

new compulsory school subjects
social media safety advice
highlighting safety features and products

The paper also includes a proposal for the UK Council for Child Internet Safety to be renamed the UK Council for Internet Safety, with an extended brief covering the delivery of the strategy and the safety of all users – not just children.

Watch the video to find out how CPA can help you

Read Our Blog – How to overcome common excuses for non-payment

Read our blog – Debt collection agency

Read our Cash Flow Advice

Read about our overdue account recovery service

Read our blog – What is credit management?

Read our blog -What is a credit management company?

Read our blog -Credit Management that works!

Read our blog – How to select a debt collection agency

click to see read about our successes

Please call us on 0330 053 9263 to discuss how CPA can help your cashflow. Alternatively, either email us or use our contact form.

‘Model’ articles of association for UK companies (UK)

Proposals to protect property leaseholders against high service charges (E)

Ready to speak to an advisor?

For help or advice on credit management, entirely without obligation.

Call us today