Privacy Concerns Surround UK Porn Age Checks

The UK government is facing privacy concerns over proposed amendments to the Online Safety Bill, which would require age verification for services that publish or allow pornographic content. Digital rights groups argue that there is a lack of transparency regarding the tools used and how they collect user data. Critics worry about the potential risks of collecting and storing large pools of children's biometric data by private companies. Additionally, concerns have been raised about discrimination against socio-economic groups that may lack official documentation. The bill would give the communications regulator Ofcom powers to fine tech companies, block access to sites, and introduce criminal liabilities for non-compliance. The government insists that the amendments will better protect children online, but critics argue that more consideration is needed to address privacy and potential discrimination issues.