Young individuals and females encounter significant risks on the internet, ranging from exposure to explicit content to facing abuse in platforms that lack adequate safety measures.
The responsibility for addressing these issues should primarily rest with online platforms and regulatory bodies, rather than solely on users. As a research fellow at the Centre for Protecting Women Online, I am deeply concerned about the frequent oversight of girls’ and young women’s harmful experiences. Despite the UK’s progressive online safety legislation, the current laws fall short in fully addressing the challenges faced by women and girls, mainly due to their lack of preventive measures.
There exist substantial legal gaps, particularly concerning harm based on gender, necessitating increased accountability for platforms and more stringent enforcement against rule violators.
To enhance online safety, technology must prioritize safety measures, and there must be stricter repercussions for failing to safeguard both children and adults.
While implementing a ban for individuals under 16 may seem like a definitive solution, it could lead to exclusion rather than reform. Such a ban risks shifting responsibility onto children, potentially driving them toward less regulated online spaces and indicating a lack of confidence in the effectiveness of the Online Safety Act.
Effective solutions already exist to address these challenges, and what is crucial now is the political determination to implement these measures effectively and hold platforms accountable.
In the interim, my advice to parents and caregivers supporting young individuals and women navigating the digital realm is to engage with online issues rather than succumbing to fear. Open discussions regarding online challenges and encouraging curiosity are essential. It is important to acknowledge that parents, caregivers, and users are also navigating these digital spaces and may seek guidance and support when needed.
While there are promising evidence-based solutions developed by civil society organizations, researchers, and activists to combat online harms, the government must prioritize making platforms safer for everyone. Strengthening existing legislation under the Online Safety Act, bridging protection gaps, and ensuring companies are held truly accountable are imperative steps.
I urge lawmakers not to rush into drastic measures before thoroughly testing the laws that have been established. Participating in the government consultation on ‘Growing up in an online world’ and seeking further assistance from organizations like NSPCC and InternetMatters.org can provide additional support on the discussed issues.