The UK government has announced plans to bolster the Online Safety Act 2023 by elevating the sharing of intimate images without consent to the status of a priority offence. This change, to be implemented through the Online Safety Act 2023 (Priority Offences) (Amendment) Regulations 2024, will place non-consensual intimate image sharing on par with other serious online crimes such as the sale of weapons and drugs.
Key changes
- Expanded scope: the amendment will encompass a broader range of non-consensual intimate image sharing, including deepfakes (artificially generated or manipulated images.)
- Elevated status: by designating this offence as a priority, the government aims to compel online platforms to take swifter and more decisive action against such content.
- Increased responsibilities: social media companies and other online platforms will be required to proactively prevent, detect and remove content related to non-consensual intimate image sharing.
Impact on online platforms
The proposed changes will significantly impact how online service providers operate:
- Enhanced content moderation: platforms will need to implement more robust systems to identify and remove offending content quickly.
- Risk assessments: companies must conduct regular evaluations to assess the risks their platforms pose in relation to this offence.
- Enforcement measures: failure to comply with these new requirements could result in substantial fines or other penalties imposed by Ofcom, the designated regulator.
Implications for users
This amendment aims to provide stronger protections for individuals online:
- Increased safety: users, particularly vulnerable groups, should experience a safer online environment with reduced exposure to non-consensual intimate imagery.
- Reporting mechanisms: platforms will be required to offer clear and accessible ways for users to report violations.
- Legal recourse: the elevated status of this offence may facilitate easier prosecution of perpetrators.
Looking ahead
As the Online Safety Act continues to evolve, businesses operating online platforms in the UK must stay informed of these regulatory changes. The proposed amendment underscores the government's commitment to addressing emerging digital threats and protecting users in an increasingly complex online landscape. Companies should review their content moderation policies and technical capabilities to ensure compliance with these forthcoming regulations.
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