In what could be the world’s toughest rules for social media platforms, two United Kingdom government officials have proposed comprehensive rules that would require tech firms to monitor “legal but harmful” content, The Financial Times reported.
Home Secretary Priti Patel has been seeking amendments to the soon-to-be implemented Online Safety bill.
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The first piece of legislation in this era of tech regulation, which the U.K. government intends to publish by the end of March, would require removal of not only illegal content but material that is lawful but harmful.
In a joint letter from Patel and Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries to the cabinet and the leader of the House of Commons describing the proposals, they argue amendments are required to protect children online, according to sources who have seen the note.
“There is lots of content on social media that is illegal and harmful to children,” another source said. “We want to give Ofcom powers to require companies to mitigate harm on their platforms.”
If the Home Office’s proposals are added to the legislation, Ofcom, the U.K.’s communications regulator, would have the power to demand tech companies provide a higher level of monitoring, rather than merely relying on their users to report abusive or offensive material.
Opponents insist these new rules would put platforms, such as Facebook and Google, at risk for liabilities. It also has the potential to set up a battle with European data protection rules and deter companies investing in the U.K.
A tech lobbyist told the news outlet that the measure has put the tech industry at “Defcon 2,” a reference to maximum military readiness for a response to threats or attacks within six hours or less.
“The broader implications are vast,” the source said.
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