Inappropriate Online Content to Be Filtered by Mobile Broadband Providers
Mobile broadband providers in the United Kingdom have updated their code of practice to include provisions to protect minors from viewing unsuitable content on the web.
The internet is a great source of information, and it is used by millions for educational, entertainment and communication purposes. However, parents often worry about their children coming across unsuitable content online, particularly with the use of mobile broadband laptops, it’s difficult to monitor your childs use (click here for info on mobile broadband card). It is not always possible to supervise minors on the internet, and discontinuing broadband altogether is not a feasible solution for today’s technologically savvy youngsters. Hence, parents are seeking an intermediate solution to moderate online content.
Until now, broadband ISPs have been reluctant to take on the responsibility of moderating content accessed via their network. Their view was that they could not be held accountable for unsuitable content that has been put on the web by others.
This has changed in the recent past, when the Mobile Broadband Group – a group of major mobile ISPs in the UK – signed a code of practice which contained new provisions put forth by communications regulator Ofcom. These provisions will enable the regulation and filtration of online content, before it can be accessed by individuals under 18 years of age. By following this code of practice, broadband ISPs can effectively monitor online content, and make it age-sensitive.
A Mobile Broadband Group representative said that the revised code of practice is comprehensive and has been written on the basis of inputs from numerous sources. He said that the Group is delighted with the way the code has been implemented, and will continue to regulate online content so as to make it appropriate for youngsters. He believes that it is important for the Group to remain committed and attentive to carry on monitoring and filtering web content effectively.
