Ofcom threatens to block pro-suicide website linked to 50 UK deaths
The TelegraphOfcom is threatening to block a suicide website linked to 50 UK deaths after it said it would refuse to abide by new online safety laws. The website, which promotes suicide, is the first company to publicly defy Ofcom, the online safety watchdog which has powers to fine tech firms up to 10 per cent of their global turnover and jail bosses who persistently refuse to curb online harms. “We would highly recommend that all users from the UK get some sort of VPN, and you should petition your lawmakers to let them know how you feel about this piece of draconian legislation.” ‘Broad range of enforcement powers’ The Online Safety Bill, passed by Parliament last month, is due to get royal assent this week, investing Ofcom with immediate powers to take action against errant social media firms. An Ofcom spokesman said sites that failed to prevent users coming across such illegal material would face fines of up to 10 per cent of their global turnover and bosses who persistently ignored warnings and requests for information from the watchdog could face up to two years in jail.
History of this topic
Ofcom tells social media sites to reveal how they will stop illegal content
The Independent
How social media will change under Ofcom rules
The Independent
Ofcom hiring more online safety staff amid calls to tackle misinformation
The Independent
UK plans to fine social media firms if they fail to curb abuse
Al Jazeera
Priti Patel promises Ofcom 'will have teeth' to enforce duty of care on tech giants
The TelegraphDiscover Related