Health Upgraders

In the wake of the fast growing use of the internet amongst the young generation, mobile broadband operators across the UK have recently signed a self-regulated Code of Practice, as part of an Ofcom initiative, to put in place precautionary measures in order to keep a tab on information unsuitable for youngsters.

The internet is undoubtedly one of the most time saving and efficient providers of varied information in terms of education or entertainment. However, many parents feel that there is an urgent need to filter its content. Most of them think it inappropriate to constantly keep a watch over their child or to disconnect the broadband connection itself, which is made even more difficult to monitor with laptop mobile broadband. They are of the opinion that similar content monitoring systems such as those applicable in case of other entertainment mediums, should be created for internet as well.

Initially, internet service providers were of the view that their responsibility extended only to making the service available to its customers and did not involve getting into questions of suitability of its content, or acting as moral guardians of young viewers. However, with communications regulator Ofcom’s initiative, mobile broadband operators have signed the Code of Practice which will monitor the information that’s made available to these youngsters.

The main providers of internet services in the UK have formed a group known as the Mobile Broadband Group primarily to put such ideas into practice. The operators will now be accountable for the screening of various computer programmes. One of the officials shared positive views as to the applicability and functioning of the Code. He also believes that it will overcome any difficulty in providing suitable content to its young viewers. The Mobile Broadband Group of operators is also feeling very optimistic about its self-regulatory approach.