The Tech Shock podcast – the woman behind the Online Safety Act

This week Vicki and Geraldine are joined by Lorna Woods, professor of Internet Law at the University of Essex and architect of the Online Safety Act (OSA). 

The discussion begins with Lorna’s original proposal for the OSA, the political turbulence the Act has experienced, and the extent to which it has moved away from a ‘duty of care’ approach.

Several questions arise in the podcast, including potential responses to the “cumulative impact” and "addictive design" of content which may be harmful.

Further, the subject of end-to-end encryption and the sharing of child sexual abuse material is discussed, with a look towards how the rights of children can be squared with the growth of this tech.

The OSA also raises questions concerning safety tools and company vs user accountability. In reality, are these tools likely to be more overwhelming than accessible? 

You can listen to the episode in full, here.