Google Says New Australian Bill Could Cut Off Under-18S From Gmail
Under the Digital Duty of Care legislation, which has already passed Australia's House of Representatives but needs cross-party support to pass the Senate, internet companies must show they are taking steps to weed out harmful content or face a fine of up to A$109 million ($75.1 million).
Recommended For You Saudi-led coalition targets Houthi missile launchers used in attempted Riyadh attackOnline companies and free speech advocates say the law could give regulators too much discretion to decide what is harmful, placing pressure on platforms to take down content. Google's warning reflects concern that the law could filter into everyday parts of the internet.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
A section of the law requiring age checks if there was a risk of a child seeing pornography "could require us to age assure and block access to everyday communication services like messaging, email and private file storage", said Rachel Lord, head of policy in Australia and New Zealand for Google's YouTube streaming website, at a Senate hearing.
"We are talking about potentially intrusive monitoring within private communications or file storage," she added.
Representatives from Meta, TikTok and Snap voiced similar concerns, warning the bill could chill online communications by allowing regulators broad discretion to determine what content or conduct is harmful while replacing some existing mandatory industry codes.
Several argued the uncertainty created a risk platforms would over-moderate content to avoid large regulatory penalties.
The government has said a broad set of rules is the only way to ensure a safe internet.
The hearing continues.
ALSO READ- EU tells TikTok to change 'harmful' design of For You feed or risk large fines Google to report child abuse content directly to Indian authorities Australia proposes to let users switch off social media algorithms with new user-choice rules
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any
responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos,
licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues
related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Comments
No comment