New Guidelines Laid Down To Stop Streaming Platforms From Hosting Harmful Content

Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime are all well-known for their streaming services. People join these platforms primarily for entertainment and education. So, in order to protect them from potentially offensive content, new guidelines are set to prevent streaming platforms from hosting harmful content.

Streaming platforms will be regulated similarly to linear broadcasters for the first time, according to the UK Government’s new plans, outlined in a ‘White Paper’ policy document released this week. The UK regulator Ofcom, which currently monitors network television content, will be in charge of applying and enforcing guidelines on Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming services that are not currently subject to the Broadcasting Code.

According to Deadline, the changes would require video-on-demand services to protect their audiences from harmful or offensive content, as well as to apply fairness, accuracy, and privacy principles. The White Paper outlines potential fines for violating the Code, with any errant VoD services liable to pay $2,63,593 or up to 5% of the organization’s revenue, whichever is greater.

For several years, linear broadcasters have pushed for these guidelines to be applied to streamers. Netflix responded to the proposal by stating that they welcome measures to update the legal framework. The streamer asserted: “We look forward to reviewing the White Paper’s other proposals and continuing to engage with the government on their plans.”

The policy document also included plans to privatize Channel 4, which is currently owned by the government and funded through advertising. This project has been highly criticized in the British television industry, but Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries has maintained that the sale will help the channel thrive in the modern era. She also believes that the funds raised will be reinvested in the television production industry.

Let’s see how all of this plays out in the long run. To get the latest updates, keep an eye on Thirsty.

What’s your opinion on this one? Let us know in the comments!