The EU takes a significant step toward online safety by implementing binding rules for social media platforms. The new Online Safety Code will help protect users from harmful content, cyberbullying, and misinformation.
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| The EU introduces strict new rules to combat harmful content on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. These regulations aim to protect users, especially children, from online abuse and misinformation. Image Courtesy: Geralt |
Dublin, Ireland - October 28, 2024:
In a groundbreaking move to combat the proliferation of harmful content on social media platforms, the European Union has introduced a stringent set of rules designed to protect its citizens, particularly children. The Online Safety Code, set to become effective next month, marks a significant departure from the era of self-regulation, ushering in a new era of accountability for tech giants.
The code mandates that platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok implement robust measures to safeguard users from a range of harmful content, including child sexual abuse material, violent and racist content, and cyberbullying. By empowering users to easily report inappropriate content, the EU aims to create a more user-friendly and safer online environment.
A key innovation in the new regulations is the introduction of age verification systems. These systems are intended to prevent minors from accessing content that is not suitable for their age, such as violent or pornographic material. Platforms that fail to comply with these rules face hefty fines of up to €20 million or 10% of their annual turnover.
Niamh Hodnett, Ireland's Online Safety Commissioner, has hailed the new code as a crucial step towards protecting users. She emphasizes the need for a behavioral shift within the tech industry, stating that the "Wild West" era of the internet must come to an end. By empowering users and holding platforms accountable, the EU hopes to foster a more secure and responsible digital landscape.
As social media continues to shape our lives, the EU's proactive approach to online safety sets a global precedent. By taking decisive action to address the growing problem of harmful content, the EU demonstrates its commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring a safer digital future.