Time for net firms to curb ‘bad online behaviour’

Internetcompaniesshould take responsibility and help scientists tackle problematic online behaviour, experts have said.

Researchers have called for collaboration from the industry to investigate socalled “digital biomarkers” or patterns of usage linked to unhealthy habits.

This may make it easier to identify and protect those most at risk of developing behaviours such as problem online gaming or gambling, a report said.

Biological mechanisms behind problematic internet usage have also been said to warrant further research.

The comments were made at the launch of a manifesto by the European Network for Problematic Usage of the Internet.

The group will encourage research into the extent of problematic use and factors driving this behaviour. Professor Naomi Fineberg said the scientific community must “step up to the plate” and start addressing problems associated with internet use.

She said: “We need to move towards identifying the most vulnerable groups in terms of their personalities or their biological make-up, or perhaps the kinds of internet activities they are engaging in.”