The BBC reported yesterday that Internet sites could be fined or blocked if they fail to tackle "online harms" such as spreading terrorist content, child sex abuse, so-called revenge pornography, hate crimes, harassment and the sale of illegal goods. It also covers harmful behaviour that has a less clear legal definition such as cyber-bullying, trolling and the spread of fake news and disinformation @ https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-47826946
Working in Apprenticeships, one is used to Prevent training where one gains understanding of how vulnerable people can be drawn into such online harms or Safeguarding training to understand child protection responsibilities. Ofsted require all apprenticeship providers to uphold the procedures involved in such protection. The NSPCC has long since advocated an enforceable mandatory social media code of practice and an independent regulator to fine those in breach.
Working in Digital Marketing and Social Media, we can see how writing the proposed code of practice for tech companies will be a big task though very much needed. We all recognise that social media and the internet is omnipresent in everyone’s lives today.
Reaching out to all Digital Marketeers, what are your thoughts on this code of practice and how do you think social media should be monitored?