The UK government wants giant tech firms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google, to provide its users a verification tool to block the proliferation of anonymous trolls on their platforms.
BERLIN, GERMANY - JANUARY 25: In this photo illustration a young man types on an illuminated computer keyboard typically favored by computer coders on January 25, 2021 in Berlin, Germany. 2020 saw a sharp rise in global cybercrime that was in part driven by the jump in online retailing that ensued during national lockdowns as governments sought to rein in the coronavirus pandemic.
UK Wants Tech Firms to Verify User Identity
As per a news story by CNBC, the new plans of the United Kingdom government is an added proposal for its incoming Online Safety Bill, which seeks to protect online platform users from content that might be harmful to them.
The latest proposal wants only platforms like Facebook to include a new identity verification tool, which, in turn, should help block anonymous online trolls.
The Digital Minister of the UK, Nadine Dorries, said in a statement that "tech firms have a responsibility to stop anonymous trolls polluting their platforms."
The proposed measure on the Online Safety Bill wants tech firms to verify their identities using a standardized requirement, which could include the need for a government-issued ID or a facial recognition system.
The proposal specifically suggests that the verification could use facial-recognition software to verify the profile photos or display pictures of its users.
On top of that, tech firms could also use the current two-factor authentication system to verify their users' identities via text message.
It could also be done by requiring its online users to provide a government-issued ID, like a passport, if ever they are creating or updating their social media profiles.
Twitter's Response to Identity Verification Measure
Meanwhile, one of the giant social media networks, Twitter, told CNBC through its spokesperson that the tech firm is currently reviewing the latest provision of the Online Safety Bill.
The Twitter spokesperson added that the main focus of the social media platform is to provide a "safe internet for all - whether or not someone can or chooses to verify themselves."
On top of that, Twitter went on to argue that being anonymous online is "a vital tool for speaking out in oppressive regimes."
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UK Online Safety Bill
According to a recent report by TechCrunch, the incoming bill has yet to come to its final form. It comes as some of its provisions are still being scrutinized, such as its risk to the freedom of expression online.
It is worth noting that if tech firms failed to follow the provisions of the incoming UK Online Safety Bill would cost them at least 10% of their global annual earnings.
The bill also proposes that firms that will refuse to comply with its measures could also end up being blocked in the UK, completely shutting access to their platforms.
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Written by Teejay Boris
