Online safety laws unsatisfactory, Technology Secretary Peter Kyle says
Published On Jan 12, 2025, 7:01 AM
UK Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has expressed concerns about the Online Safety Act, stating it is currently 'uneven' and 'unsatisfactory'. This follows criticism from Ian Russell, whose daughter Molly took her own life after encountering harmful online content. The Act, originally designed to ensure tech companies take responsibility for harmful content, has faced backlash for potential censorship, leading to the removal of provisions aimed at filtering 'legal-but-harmful' content. Kyle mentioned he knows the act has good components but did not commit to significant changes, suggesting adaptation within the existing framework may be needed. Additionally, there are concerns over tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg moving towards less moderation of harmful content in favor of free speech. The government is aiming to reinforce the protection of children on social media but is cautious of over-legislation that might infringe on free speech.
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Tech giants may face increased regulatory pressure in the UK, potentially impacting their operations and profitability. However, if companies can adapt and comply with the law, they may benefit from better user trust and engagement. The focus on online safety could lead to increased compliance costs without a clear path for increased earnings, especially if user engagement drops due to stricter content rules.
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