Overview

This Online Safety Bill aims to improve online safety for children and young people in the UK. It mandates internet service providers and mobile phone operators to implement age verification and filtering measures for adult content, requires them to provide online safety information, and introduces licensing for pornographic services.

Description

Internet Services and Mobile Phones

The bill requires internet and mobile service providers to offer an internet service excluding adult content unless the subscriber opts in, is 18 or over, and verifies their age through an OFCOM-approved scheme. OFCOM will set and monitor standards for filtering and age verification. The bill also mandates that providers give clear online safety information to users and that device manufacturers provide age-appropriate content filtering options.

On-Demand Programme Services

The bill amends existing legislation to require age verification for accessing harmful material (including pornography) on on-demand services.

Licensing of Pornographic Services

The bill introduces licensing for pornographic services, requiring age verification for access. The Secretary of State will designate two bodies: a licensing authority and an independent appeals body. The bill also includes measures to prevent payments to unlicensed pornographic services.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, it will incur costs associated with OFCOM's expanded role in setting and enforcing standards, the establishment of the licensing authority and appeals body, and the Secretary of State's parental education program. The exact financial implications will depend on the implementation details.

Groups Affected

• Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Mobile Phone Operators: Significant regulatory burdens regarding content filtering, age verification, and information provision. Potential costs associated with implementing new systems and complying with regulations.
• Device Manufacturers: Required to incorporate age-appropriate content filtering tools into their devices.
• Pornographic Service Providers: Subject to licensing and stringent age verification requirements. Risk of penalties for non-compliance.
• Financial Institutions: Required to comply with directions from the licensing authority to prevent payments to unlicensed pornographic services.
• Parents: Will receive information and educational resources about online safety measures to protect their children.
• Children and Young People: The primary beneficiaries, receiving greater protection from harmful online content.

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