We all know that children with unrestricted access to the internet are always at risk of encountering predators. That’s why social platforms have introduced parental control tools, and governments are working on different legislations to protect children in the online space. However, the UK government is now directly demanding Google and Apple to take a stance against taking and sharing of explicit images.
The UK government wants Google and Apple to block explicit images on phones and computers by default, unless the user has verified their age and proven to be an adult.
The government is specifically demanding that nudity-detection algorithms be incorporated into Apple and Google operating systems to prevent underage users from sharing explicit images of their private parts. This is said to be a part of the government’s initiative to tackle violence against women and girls.
“The Home Office wants to see operating systems that prevent any nudity being displayed on screen unless the user has verified they are an adult through methods such as biometric checks or official ID. Child sex offenders would be required to keep such blockers enabled.” the FT added.
The report adds that the UK Home Office wants to “encourage” companies to introduce nudity-detection algorithms, but it has also explored the possibility of making such controls a mandatory requirement for devices sold in the UK. The policy is initially intended for smartphones, though it could extend to desktops as well.
Both Google and Apple have already incorporated safety tools and parental controls into their various apps and services. However, such a demand from the UK government could raise serious concerns about privacy and data protection, as it would require Google and Apple to monitor users’ private photos.
What are your thoughts on this demand from the UK government? Should Apple and Google approve such a policy?
Source: Financial Times