UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called on major technology companies to quickly implement security measures that prevent children from sending or receiving indecent images. Starmer warned that if companies do not take action within three months, the government will prepare new regulations.
Speaking at London Tech Week, Starmer emphasized that companies operating in the UK should apply device-level protection tools. These tools aim to prevent children from interacting with images containing nudity and sexual content.
Device-Based Protection Plan
According to the proposal, companies like Apple and Google are expected to deploy or develop tools on smartphones and tablets that can detect and block such content. Adults would still be able to access this content through age verification systems.
The government stated it is ready to draft legislation if companies fail to act within three months. This could include fines and, as a last resort, criminal liability for senior executives.
A Broader Step Against Online Risks
The initiative is part of the government's plan to protect children from online risks. This plan also includes measures against online abuse, grooming, and sextortion.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the step is designed to prevent abuse, not to increase surveillance. Mahmood noted that the technology already exists on devices and companies can activate it to block children from seeing images containing nudity.
She also emphasized that the system does not involve reporting, data collection, or sending images outside the device, aiming to reduce risks to children while protecting user privacy.
Mixed Reactions
The announcement received support from child protection organizations. Groups like NSPCC stated that such measures may be necessary to combat online abuse and could prevent serious harm if implemented quickly.
On the other hand, privacy advocates warned that the plan could open the door to more intrusive monitoring on personal devices. Big Brother Watch said the regulation might lead to excessive surveillance of private life.
Political reactions were divided. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch questioned how the measures would work in practice, while Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper argued the government has delayed too long on this issue.
Google said it is working with UK authorities to find solutions that provide a safe digital environment for young people while using privacy-friendly methods to prevent the spread of harmful content. Apple did not immediately comment.
