Ofcom Reports No Further Legal Action Against Pro-Suicide Forum Linked to Over 130 UK Deaths
According to the regulator: the platform has blocked access to “the vast majority” of UK users, stating that “no legitimate channels are available” under the Online Safety Act.
Despite this, individuals can still access the forum by using a VPN to obscure their location online.
Andy Burrows, CEO of the Molly Rose Foundation, expressed that the decision to refrain from further legal action could result in “many more lives lost,” criticizing the timing of the announcement coinciding with the new Prime Minister’s appointment as a “complete lack of moral courage.”
An Ofcom spokesperson indicated that the choice was made “a few days ago” after “months of exploring all possible legal options.”
Families affected by these incidents were notified last week about the decision, which was publicly announced today.
“In this context, it was deemed inappropriate to delay the announcement in light of today’s political developments,” they noted.
Ofcom executive director Suzanne Cater stated that the regulator had utilized its powers “to the fullest extent possible.”
“We will continue to monitor the forum closely to ensure the geo-blocks remain effective,” she added.
Geo-blocking prevents UK users from accessing the site unless they mask their location with a VPN or similar tools.
Ofcom is collaborating with the government to explore the potential for enhancing its enforcement capabilities.
This specifically pertains to acquiring a website blocking order through the courts, which would require UK internet service providers to block such harmful sites.
Regulators claim that the forum’s implementation of geo-blocking maximizes their legal actions under online safety laws.
The BBC has reached out to the government for a statement.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk