Recommendations and responses related to the Internet investigation report
These recommendations were made in the Internet investigation report.
Require industry to pre-screen material
Recommendation
The government should require industry to pre-screen material before it is uploaded to the internet to prevent access to known indecent images of children.
Responses
On 10 November 2020, the UK Government noted that it had launched the Voluntary Principles to Counter Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse. The interim code of practice on tackling child sexual exploitation and abuse and the Voluntary Principles, set out the UK Government’s expectation that all companies will prevent access to known child sexual abuse material, which includes pre-screening.
Prevent access to indecent images globally
Recommendation
The government should press the WeProtect Global Alliance to take more action internationally to ensure that those countries hosting indecent images of children implement legislation and procedures to prevent access to such imagery.
Responses
On 10 November 2020, the UK Government noted that it will continue to work collaboratively with the WeProtect Global Alliance (WPGA) to continue to make combatting indecent images of children, grooming and live streaming a top priority. The UK Government stated that this will be done through its board meetings and by ensuring the WPGA further develops and disseminates key resources, such as the Model National Response, Global Threat Assessment and Global Strategic Response framework.
Introduce age verification legislation
Recommendation
The government should introduce legislation requiring providers of online services and social media platforms to implement more stringent age verification techniques on all relevant devices.
Responses
On 10 November 2020, the UK Government noted that it expects age assurance methods, including age verification, will play a key role in the online harms regulatory framework. The UK Government stated it is working closely with stakeholders to consider what could be delivered ahead of, and through, the online harms regulatory framework. Ahead of legislation, the Government stated that it will publish guidance on embedding ‘safety by design’ principles into the design and development of online products and services. The Government noted that this will serve as best practice for reducing online harms for users, especially children.
Publish interim code of practice
Recommendation
The government should publish, without further delay, the interim code of practice in respect of child sexual abuse and exploitation as proposed by the Online Harms White Paper (published April 2019).
Responses
On 10 November 2020, the UK Government noted that the interim code of practice on child sexual exploitation and abuse will be published later this year. This will be alongside the full Government response to the Online Harms White Paper, which will include further details on the proposals for online harms regulation.
Recommendations process
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Investigation report
Investigation reportView the Internet investigation report in its entirety.