UK's Online Harms White Paper
9th April, 2019Category: International
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) of UK Government has proposed an independent watchdog that will write a "code of practice" for tech companies. Senior managers could be held liable for breaches, with a possible levy on the industry to fund the regulator.
The Online Harms White Paper is a joint proposal from the DCMS and the Home Office of UK Government. The paper suggests establishing an independent regulator that can write a "code of practice" for social networks and internet companies, giving the regulator enforcement powers including the ability to fine companies that break the rules, considering additional enforcement powers such as the ability to fine company executives and force internet service providers to block sites that break the rules. The plans cover a range of issues that are clearly defined in law such as spreading terrorist content, child sex abuse, so-called revenge pornography, hate crimes, harassment and the sale of illegal goods.
Read More: The Guardian, UK Govt