The changes came into force on January 31 and involve serious punishment for Internet trolls.
The UK has made significant changes in legislation aimed at combating cybercrime, in particular, with such phenomena as unwanted sending of intimate photos, attacks on people with epilepsy using flashing images and other malicious actions on the network. The innovations introduced in the framework of the Law on Internet Safety (Online Safety Act), entered into force on January 31, 2024 and provide for criminal penalties for such crimes.
Cybermigging, now officially criminalized, involves sending unsolicited nude photos via social media, dating sites, and even data-sharing services like Bluetooth and Airdrop. Even if the user rejects the image, it will still be visible in the preview. A study conducted by Professor Jessica Ringrose in 2020 found that 76% of girls aged 12 to 18 have experienced cyber bullying, highlighting the need to protect minors online.
Another significant aspect of the new legislation is the fight against so – called "epilepsy trolling" - sending flashing images in order to cause a seizure in people with epilepsy. The bill was developed after an incident involving Zach, a man with epilepsy who was attacked by trolls on Twitter while organizing a fundraiser for a charity. Trolls purposefully placed flashing images on the initiative's page.
As a result, the "Zaha Act" was passed, and the UK became the first country to take measures against such attacks.
Special attention is paid to the fight against "revenge porn", a practice in which intimate or pornographic materials are distributed without the consent of the person depicted, often for the purpose of harassment or humiliation. It is for this type of crime that attackers often use generative AI technologies
The Internet Security Act also requires tech giants and social media companies to be held accountable for content posted on their platforms. These innovations are an important step towards creating a safer and more secure online environment for all users.
The UK has made significant changes in legislation aimed at combating cybercrime, in particular, with such phenomena as unwanted sending of intimate photos, attacks on people with epilepsy using flashing images and other malicious actions on the network. The innovations introduced in the framework of the Law on Internet Safety (Online Safety Act), entered into force on January 31, 2024 and provide for criminal penalties for such crimes.
Cybermigging, now officially criminalized, involves sending unsolicited nude photos via social media, dating sites, and even data-sharing services like Bluetooth and Airdrop. Even if the user rejects the image, it will still be visible in the preview. A study conducted by Professor Jessica Ringrose in 2020 found that 76% of girls aged 12 to 18 have experienced cyber bullying, highlighting the need to protect minors online.
Another significant aspect of the new legislation is the fight against so – called "epilepsy trolling" - sending flashing images in order to cause a seizure in people with epilepsy. The bill was developed after an incident involving Zach, a man with epilepsy who was attacked by trolls on Twitter while organizing a fundraiser for a charity. Trolls purposefully placed flashing images on the initiative's page.
As a result, the "Zaha Act" was passed, and the UK became the first country to take measures against such attacks.
Special attention is paid to the fight against "revenge porn", a practice in which intimate or pornographic materials are distributed without the consent of the person depicted, often for the purpose of harassment or humiliation. It is for this type of crime that attackers often use generative AI technologies
The Internet Security Act also requires tech giants and social media companies to be held accountable for content posted on their platforms. These innovations are an important step towards creating a safer and more secure online environment for all users.
