Source · Select Committees · Women and Equalities Committee
Recommendation 24
24
Deferred
Few platforms accept non-consensual intimate image hash matching technology.
Conclusion
Hash matching technology is a crucial tool in preventing non-consensual intimate image abuse. It is unacceptable that so few platforms receive NCII hashes, not least when they are already able to incorporate similar technologies for preventing the sharing of child sexual abuse material. It is obvious to us that accepting hashes for NCII is the right thing to do, irrespective of whether there is legislation or statutory guidance to require it. It is disappointing that companies, in some cases trillion-dollar companies such as Google, have been unable to make that judgement. Such a company has the means to overcome any interoperability issues which currently exist. (Conclusion, Paragraph 124)
Government Response Summary
The government states that Google can consider adopting hash-matching technology if it wishes, and they would support it. Ofcom, as the independent regulator, will consult on additional measures for online platforms' safety duties, including automated hash-matching tools for intimate image abuse.
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.