Source · Select Committees · Women and Equalities Committee
Recommendation 16
16
Deferred
Non-consensual intimate image abuse extends beyond sexually explicit content.
Conclusion
Non-consensual intimate image abuse is not always limited to sexually explicit content. For example, in some cultures, countries, or religions, sharing a photograph of someone without their religious clothing—or with their arm around another person—can be disastrous for the victim. (Conclusion, Paragraph 85)
Government Response Summary
The government partially accepts the conclusion but largely deflects responsibility by stating that Ofcom, as the independent regulator, has powers under the Online Safety Act and will consult on further measures, including automated hash-matching tools.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Partial acceptance Google is able to consider this recommendation and accepting signing up to StopNCII.org hash-matching technology if it wishes to. The Government would support Google adopting this technology or any other technology if it is effective in protecting UK users from intimate image abuse. Beyond this, Ofcom is the independent regulator for online platforms and search services’ new Online Safety Act duties. It has powers to set out steps search services such as Google should take to fulfil their safety duties. Under the new illegal content duties placed on service providers via the Online Safety Act, providers need to have proportionate systems in place to take down illegal content. This includes illegal intimate image abuse content. Ofcom’s codes incorporate measures for search services for tackling illegal content, including intimate image abuse. It has published guidance on when intimate image abuse content meets the threshold for removal. As set already set out, Ofcom has stated that it plans to build on the first editions of its Codes of Practice with further measures, including some that have been suggested by stakeholders in response to its consultations. Ofcom has stated it intends to consult on these additional measures shortly. It has said the consultation will cover automated hash-matching tools for intimate image abuse.