Government of the United Kingdom (UK) has requested Tech Companies like Apple and Google to hinder access to nude images on smartphones and other devices for children (Under 18s).
Prime Minister of the UK, Keir Starmer, has asked Tech companies to either activate features that are built-in or get their operating system updated to block children from “taking, sharing or viewing nude images” on their phones and other devices.
He sternly warned via X, if these Tech Companies fail to act, “we will”.
Making his speech at London Tech Week, the UK PM said: “This is not an impossible challenge. These are some of the most innovative companies in the world and I believe they can solve it.”
The government said, it will not hesitate to use legislation to force Companies to activate features if they fail to comply voluntarily within a period of three (3) months.
This could encompass fines or, as a last resort, criminal liability for companies which do not comply.
Starmer said, the changes would apply to both existing and newly-sold smartphones and other devices in the country.
He said: “Legislation could cover operating system providers and others in the supply chain, such as retailers, and will not affect the use of devices owned and used by adults who verify their age.”
Responding to the UK PM request, a Spox of Google said, it was “deeply committed to protecting children online.
“We are working constructively with UK partners to find effective, privacy-preserving solutions that deter the spread of harmful content while ensuring a safe digital environment for young people.”
Apple, American multinational technology company known for consumer electronics, software and online services, has already age-verified its users in the UK, as well as, offers a blocking service on its own platforms including, iMessage.
Starmer said: “This government will not stand by while children are put at risk online.
“Today I am calling on the tech companies to introduce device-level controls to prevent children from taking, sharing or viewing nude images.
“And if they don’t act, we will.”
The UK has already activated laws to try to protect children online. Those who campaign for Child Safety have urged the government to move further to halt children viewing or sharing nude images, amid frets about online grooming and sextortion.
Photo: Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (UK), Keir Starmer | Getty Images
