Collective action needed to meet unenviable challenge of tackling online harm - The Yorkshire Post says

Whilst the positives of online communication platforms are undoubtedly numerous, from keeping in touch with friends to connecting with new communities, a number of developments in recent days have served as a reminder of how, sadly, they also present opportunity for serious online harm. Today publishing an investigation examining the current state of terrorism in the region and the fight against it, The Yorkshire Post reveals how terrorists now operate on countless platforms, using encrypted technology to communicate in secret and reach out to young people.

Only yesterday, the publication of a statement by seven countries including the UK highlighted another threat. Enforcement agencies fear that Facebook’s previously announced plans to fully encrypt communications in its Messenger app – meaning no-one apart from sender and recipient can read or modify messages – would affect their ability to target paedophiles and protect children online. Their words came just days after Halifax MP Holly Lynch described trolling and online abuse as a “public health ticking timebomb” and called for the publication of the Online Harms Bill proposed last year, whilst this newspaper and its sister titles continue to urge more tolerance and kindness online as part of the Call It Out campaign.

It is incumbent on technology platforms, law and policymakers, and police and other agencies to work with internet users of all ages. Only with collective action can we truly get a grip on online threats.

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Thank you

James Mitchinson