Social media platforms and dating apps in the UK may be at risk of being blocked if they do not take action against cyber flashing as part of a significant tightening of regulations. Liz Kendall, the Technology Secretary, newly appointed this month, will address the issue in her upcoming speech at the Labour conference, emphasizing the need to combat online sexual offenses.
In her announcement, Kendall will highlight cyber flashing as a severe form of online misconduct under the Online Safety Act. This classification will require platforms to proactively remove such content and implement measures to prevent its dissemination.
Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines of up to 10% of a company’s global revenue and potential service blockage in the UK. Research by YouGov revealed that a considerable number of young individuals, particularly girls aged 12-18, have been exposed to unsolicited explicit content online.
Kendall’s stance on online safety is firm, stating that protecting children online is paramount. She emphasized her initial actions as Secretary of State in compelling social media companies to eliminate harmful content related to suicide and self-harm.
Kendall is expected to declare in her speech at the Labour conference that cyber flashing will be designated a priority offense, mandating platforms to detect and remove such material by law. The criminalization of cyber flashing in England and Wales took effect in January 2024, with potential penalties of up to two years in prison for offenders.
A new Statutory Instrument is anticipated to be introduced in the Autumn to enforce the latest legislative amendment targeting technology firms. This move aims to further regulate online behavior and enhance safety measures for internet users.