Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has issued a warning to major tech platforms, urging them to remove footage of recent tragic events. Commissioner Julie Inman Grant gave social media platforms 24 hours to remove graphic content related to the Bondi Westfield shopping center massacre and the Sydney church stabbing. She has the authority to fine social media companies for allowing objectionable content to be published.
The Commissioner emphasized the need to remove material depicting violent acts with a high level of impact or detail. Live-streamed footage of the church stabbing and videos of the Bondi attack, including images of the alleged attacker, have been circulating online. In response, the Commissioner has taken action to compel platforms to remove such content.
If social media companies fail to comply, the Commissioner can enforce the takedown notice through civil proceedings or fines. Additionally, search engines may be contacted to limit the visibility of harmful content. The Commissioner is also addressing the issue of encrypted messaging apps and expects them to take measures to suppress objectionable content.
Major tech platforms have been urged to enhance their policies on harmful content, with the government planning new legislation to address false and harmful material online. The Commissioner’s office will receive increased funding to support its efforts in regulating online safety. Please rewrite the text for me.
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