A group of tech companies and civil society organisations has urged UK policymakers to reconsider their approach to online safety legislation, warning that proposed age-gating measures and access restrictions threaten to fragment the open internet and erode the rights of all users.
The statement comes as ministers consult on which online platforms and features should be placed behind age verification systems. Proposals under consideration include curfews for young users and sweeping restrictions on access to internet services ranging from video games and VPNs to static websites.