YouTube & Tech Giants Accused of Failing to Protect Children Online,Face Increased Scrutiny in Australia
(Image: People walk by a YouTube logo,as Google celebrates the 20th anniversary of first video uploaded to YouTube,at the company’s corporate headquarters in San Bruno,California,on April 23,2025. (PHOTO / AFP))
Sydney,australia – YouTube and other major tech companies are facing mounting criticism from Australia’s internet watchdog for allegedly failing to adequately protect children from online sexual abuse material. A new report from the eSafety Commissioner reveals meaningful safety deficiencies across platforms, with YouTube specifically called out for its lack of transparency and responsiveness.
The report,released Wednesday,found that YouTube,alongside Apple,doesn’t track the number of user reports regarding child sexual abuse material (CSAM) or provide data on response times. This lack of accountability comes as the Australian government recently decided to include YouTube in its groundbreaking ban on social media for teenagers, reversing a previously considered exemption.
“When left to thier own devices, these companies aren’t prioritising the protection of children and are seemingly turning a blind eye to crimes occurring on their services,” stated eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant. “No other consumer-facing industry would be given the license to operate by enabling such heinous crimes against children on their premises,or services.”
Key Findings of the eSafety Commissioner’s Report:
Lack of reporting: YouTube and Apple failed to answer questions about the volume of user reports received concerning CSAM.
Insufficient Safety Measures: Platforms are failing to adequately detect and prevent the livestreaming of abusive content and block links to known CSAM.
Inadequate Reporting Mechanisms: Existing reporting systems are not robust enough to effectively address the issue.
Limited Hash-Matching: Platforms aren’t consistently utilizing “hash-matching” technology – a crucial tool for identifying known CSAM images – across all services.
Stagnant Improvements: Some providers haven’t addressed previously identified safety gaps, despite being notified by the regulator.
While Google maintains it employs industry-standard techniques, including hash-matching and AI, to identify and remove abuse material, the eSafety Commissioner’s report paints a starkly different picture. Meta, owner of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, also states it prohibits graphic videos.
The eSafety Commissioner has mandated reporting from Apple, Discord, Google, Meta, Microsoft, Skype, Snap, and whatsapp on their efforts to combat online child exploitation. This latest report highlights a concerning pattern of inaction and a critical need for increased accountability.
This comes amidst ongoing tension with Google,who recently threatened legal action if YouTube was included in the teen social media ban. The Australian government’s decision underscores its commitment to prioritizing child safety online, even in the face of potential legal challenges.
➡️ Learn More: YouTube to be included in Australia’s teen social media ban
➡️ Related: Google threatens legal action if YouTube included in Australia’s social media ban
Protecting our children online is paramount.Share this article to raise awareness and demand action from tech companies.
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