YouTube and web firms to police 'dark side' of internet
source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2008/jul/31/internet.youtube
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The internet industry must take more responsibility for protecting young people from the "dark side" of digital content relating to abuse, violence and suicide, according to a committee of MPs, the Guardian reports.
The investigation recommended the establishment of a self-regulatory body to create better online safeguards to protect children from being exposed to unsuitable material. The body would police websites, adjudicate on complaints and could help crack down on piracy and illegal file-sharing in Britain.
The report praised efforts of some companies, such as Microsoft and MySpace, but criticised others, notably Google-owned video sharing giant YouTube.
The committee chairman, John Whittingdale, criticised YouTube for not going far enough with proactive measures, beyond a pledge to take down material when it is "flagged" up by users.
Whittingdale cited one specific example of "concern" involving a video of what appeared to be a gang rape that was viewed around 600 times. He said YouTube was made aware of the content by a user but it was not taken down until a second warning came through.
How do you feel about moderation on websites? Can communities be trusted to police themselves? Where is the balance between free speech (which companies don't actually have to uphold - if they're providing a web service they can decide whatever rules they want) and safe, friendly communities? How can young users be protected from unsuitable content?
The investigation recommended the establishment of a self-regulatory body to create better online safeguards to protect children from being exposed to unsuitable material. The body would police websites, adjudicate on complaints and could help crack down on piracy and illegal file-sharing in Britain.
The report praised efforts of some companies, such as Microsoft and MySpace, but criticised others, notably Google-owned video sharing giant YouTube.
The committee chairman, John Whittingdale, criticised YouTube for not going far enough with proactive measures, beyond a pledge to take down material when it is "flagged" up by users.
Whittingdale cited one specific example of "concern" involving a video of what appeared to be a gang rape that was viewed around 600 times. He said YouTube was made aware of the content by a user but it was not taken down until a second warning came through.
How do you feel about moderation on websites? Can communities be trusted to police themselves? Where is the balance between free speech (which companies don't actually have to uphold - if they're providing a web service they can decide whatever rules they want) and safe, friendly communities? How can young users be protected from unsuitable content?
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natedawson
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I don't believe that censoring the internet in any way, shape or form is acceptable. It will be the beginning of the last and only trustworthy source of information the American people have left being turned into nothing more then a tool of our government to further an agenda.
- 3 years ago
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natedawson
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rightbrain
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A slippery slope, with all the best intentions.
- 3 years ago
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rightbrain
