TikTok 504d1a Snapchat, Other Video Sharing Platforms Must Do More to Protect s: UK Regulator

Ofcom, which is responsible for enforcing the rules, published guidance for video sharing platforms (VSPs). 3c6fw

By Reuters | Updated: 6 October 2021 13:06 IST

TikTok, Snapchat, Other Video Sharing Platforms Must Do More to Protect s: UK Regulator

Photo Credit: Reuters 3v6d2p

Ofcom said research showed that a third of s said they had witnessed or experienced hateful content

Highlights

VSPs must take steps to protect all of their s from illegal material
Ofcom’s remit covers platforms established in Britain
Platforms established in other countries are excluded

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Online video sharing platforms (VSPs), such as TikTok, Snapchat and OnlyFans, need to provide clear rules on content, allow s to flag harmful videos, and restrict access to pornographic material, Britain's media regulator Ofcom said.

Under laws that came into effect in Britain last year, VSPs must take appropriate steps to protect all of their s from illegal material, with a particular focus on under 18s.

Ofcom, which is responsible for enforcing the rules, published guidance for VSPs on Wednesday, saying it wanted to see noticeable improvements over time in safety processes and complaint procedures.

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Chief Executive Melanie Dawes said online video played a huge role in people's lives, particularly for children, but many s saw hateful, violent or inappropriate material while using them.

"The platforms where these videos are shared now have a legal duty to take steps to protect their s," she said.

"So we're stepping up our oversight of these tech companies, while also gearing up for the task of tackling a much wider range of online harms in the future."

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Ofcom said its research showed that a third of s said they had witnessed or experienced hateful content; a quarter claimed they'd been exposed to violent or disturbing content; while one in five had seen content that encouraged racism.

The regulator's remit covers platforms established in Britain, numbering 18 initially. Platforms established in other countries, such as Facebook, are excluded.

If it finds a VSP had failed to take appropriate measures to protect s, it will be able to investigate and take action, including fines or — in the most serious cases — suspending or restricting the service.

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