One of the MPs for York, who’s backing a ban on under-16s accessing social media, wants to go further and include the use of VPNs (Virtual Private Networks).
Speaking to David Dunning on last night’s Sunday Late Show on YorkMix Radio, Luke Charters, the Labour member for York Outer, says there should be age verification for the use of VPNs
Virtual Private Networks allow internet users to route their connections via territories that don’t restrict access to sites.
They can be used to hide browsing history and access websites that carry adult material without having to verify age.
You can hear Luke Charters on the Sunday Late Show here. He was on after 11pm and this some of what he said:
“I do think we need to change the law. I really welcome the (Government) consultation, and I’m concerned that at the moment, that framework in place is not fit for the modern age.
“So for example, I’ve seen some really quite saddening research that 800,000 children under five are using social media. I mean, that should not be happening whatsoever.
“I’m also concerned that young children, maybe even as young as 10 or 11 they’re actually using VPNs as a tool to access adult content and harmful content online.
“So I’ve also think that we need to look at age verification of VPNs. Otherwise, young children are going to, sadly, be looking at some really harmful content online.
“I’m really looking forward to hosting an event in partnership with the University of York to meet with some of my constituents and hear directly from them.
“So certainly, if you’re one of my constituents, please get in touch. I don’t think there are any easy answers. I don’t think there are any single answers, but I think everyone in York shares exactly the same desire in mind that we’ve got to protect children online.”
