Over 200 sections of the UK Online Safety Bill outline the duties of digital platforms regarding the content that is published on their channels. It is a thorough piece of law. These platforms have a "duty of care" under the law, which makes the internet a safer place for users—especially younger ones.
By establishing age restrictions and age verification processes, this law would shield children from age-inappropriate content. It would also hold internet service providers more accountable by requiring the prompt removal of illegal content.
The UK has initially sought to be a pioneer in addressing digital safety issues, particularly about children's exposure to inappropriate content online. However, despite various delays, the European Union took the lead in implementing the Digital Services Act in August.
Proposed initially more than four years ago, the bill shifts the focus from cracking down on "legal but harmful" content to prioritizing the protection of children and the eradication of illegal content online. Technology Minister Michelle Donelan touted the Online Bill UK as "game-changing" legislation in line with the government's ambitions to make the UK the safest place online.