“Having hosted a Cyber Safety event in Gosport, and as a mum myself, I am pleased to see the action taken by the Government. It should not be only our responsibility to ensure our children are safe online, and I am glad to see that companies will face tough penalties and regulation.” Caroline Dinenage MP
Today the Online Harms White Paper has been published, setting out the government’s plans for new online safety measures. It has launched a public consultation that is open until 1st July 2019, encouraging the public to have their say.
The proposed measures would mean that social media and tech firms no longer regulate themselves. New laws would require companies to protect their users, introducing tough penalties and a new independent regulator to ensure that companies comply.
It is the first of its kind and will make companies more responsible for their users’ safety online, especially children and other vulnerable groups.
Gosport MP, Caroline Dinenage, this year hosted a Cyber Safety event for parents with local organizations and authorities – giving advice on how to keep children safe online. Caroline has also attended two ‘Google Legends’ Assemblies with local schools St John’s C of E Primary and Haselworth Primary.
Caroline commented:
“Companies have a duty of care towards their users, especially children and vulnerable groups. I am pleased to see this will be enshrined in legislation. I encourage all local residents and companies to get involved and have their say in the consultation, helping shape our policy.”