Unintended dangers

WHiLe it is unquestionably true that the internet has made life immeasurably easier, it is a double-edged sword.

At its extreme end, children can see vile pornography, risk grooming by paedophiles or be lured into pernicious gaming addictions. So no one could sensibly argue against measures designed to prevent child exploitation online. But we must beware of unintended consequences. Under a tough new information Commissioner’s code, people could be forced to demonstrate their age before visiting all manner of websites – handing over personal details such as credit cards and passports. How long before fraudsters hack this treasure trove?

And restrictions on data collection could make it impossible to sell the advertising which funds services that are currently supplied free on the web, such as Mumsnet, trip Advisor and news websites.

Clearly borne of the best intentions, these proposals need very careful scrutiny. it would be disastrous if in trying to protect children this unelected quango imposed rules that meant valuable services were no longer available, and new security risks created.