Moderation Policy Based on the UK Online Safety Act (OSA)

Website: mattgwinnutt.com

Introduction

This Moderation Policy outlines my commitment to creating a safe online environment for all users, particularly focusing on children, by adhering to the requirements set forth by the UK’s Online Safety Act (OSA). My name is Matt Gwinnutt, and I am the sole creator and moderator of this platform. I recognize the importance of protecting users from illegal and harmful content, as well as the role Ofcom plays in enforcing these standards.

Key Objectives

  1. User Protection: My primary aim is to enhance the safety of online services for all users, with special attention to addressing content that may be harmful to children.
  2. Compliance with Ofcom Regulations: I am committed to complying with the OSA and the associated codes of practice established by Ofcom.

Content Moderation Responsibilities

1. Active Monitoring and Removal of Illegal Content

I will actively monitor user-generated content and promptly remove any illegal material, including but not limited to:

  • Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM)
  • Grooming
  • Terrorism-related content
  • Fraudulent activities

In line with the Online Safety Act, I recognize that there are over 130 priority offences that must be addressed. These offences can be grouped into 17 categories, and I will assess and mitigate the risks of these occurring on my platform. The priority offences include:

  1. Terrorism
  2. Harassment, stalking, threats, and abuse offences
  3. Coercive and controlling behaviour
  4. Hate offences
  5. Intimate image abuse
  6. Extreme pornography
  7. Child sexual exploitation and abuse
  8. Sexual exploitation of adults
  9. Unlawful immigration
  10. Human trafficking
  11. Fraud and financial offences
  12. Proceeds of crime
  13. Assisting or encouraging suicide
  14. Drugs and psychoactive substances
  15. Weapons offences (knives, firearms, and other weapons)
  16. Foreign interference
  17. Animal welfare

I will take action to promptly remove content that falls under these categories, ensuring that my platform is compliant with the OSA and is a safe space for all users.

2. Risk Assessment

Regular assessments will be conducted to evaluate the risks of users encountering illegal content and the potential for my services being used for unlawful activities, including submitting illegal harms risk assessments as mandated by Ofcom.

3. Implementation of Safety Measures

I will implement comprehensive safety measures, including:

  • Robust content moderation strategies
  • User reporting and complaints systems
  • Service design features that enhance user safety
  • Clear governance frameworks and transparent terms of service

4. Removal of Illegal Material

In compliance with Ofcom’s guidance, I will ensure the rapid removal of illegal content when identified and strive to minimize the risk of priority criminal content appearing on my platform.

5. User Reporting and Complaints

Users will have easy access to reporting mechanisms for illegal or harmful content. I will ensure responsiveness to user concerns and take appropriate action promptly.

6. Age Assurance

Services that allow adult content will incorporate effective age assurance processes to prevent children from accessing inappropriate materials.

Transparency and User Communication

I will maintain clear and accessible communication regarding my content moderation policies and practices, ensuring users understand how their safety is prioritized on the platform.

Balancing Protection and Freedom of Expression

This policy seeks to strike a balance between protecting users from harm and supporting freedom of expression, creating an inclusive community while adhering to safety standards.

Compliance and Enforcement

1. Adherence to Ofcom’s Codes of Practice

I commit to following Ofcom’s codes of practice, submitting necessary illegal harms risk assessments, and being prepared for potential compliance checks by Ofcom.

2. Enforcement Preparedness

I acknowledge Ofcom’s enforcement powers, including the ability to impose fines or court orders for non-compliance. I am dedicated to addressing identified risks promptly.

Collaboration with Child Protection Experts

I will seek collaboration with child protection organizations and law enforcement to enhance compliance measures, ensuring that I stay informed about best practices in combating online child exploitation.

Community Engagement

I will engage with my user community to promote awareness about online safety, encouraging discussions around responsible online behavior, and informing users about available reporting tools and support resources.

Training and Development

As the sole moderator, I will pursue ongoing training opportunities to stay updated on best practices in content moderation, legal responsibilities, and emerging online threats.

Monitoring and Evaluation

I will regularly monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of this policy, making adjustments as needed based on user feedback, changes in regulation, or emerging trends in online safety.

Conclusion

By adhering to this Moderation Policy, I aim to create a safer online environment that protects users from harmful content while promoting freedom of expression. My proactive approach ensures compliance with the OSA and demonstrates my commitment to user safety.