Mobile operator global trade group the GSM Association has launched the Mobile Alliance Against Child Sexual Abuse Content to prevent individuals or organizations from trying to use mobiles to consume or profit from child sexual abuse content. Operators noted that while the vast majority of such content is accessed through the wired internet, “there is a danger” as the mobile web gains ground that broadband networks could be “misused” in the same way.

ISP’s may argue that they are only conduits of content, but mobile operators aren’t prepared to take such a blasé stance. The Alliance said it would “create significant barriers” to the misuse of its networks and services for hosting, accessing or profiting from child sexual abuse content. Members will implement “technical mechanisms” or filters to block access to banned web sites. They are also supporting customers reporting any inappropriate content and plan to swiftly deal with any “Notice and Take Down” (NTD) warnings they get from subscribers or law enforcement officials. The Alliance also promised to share information and to cooperate on keeping child sexual abuse content from infecting mobile networks. The Alliance includes some of the world’s largest operators including Vodafone (NYSE: VOD), T-Mobile, Telefonica/O2 and Orange. (Release).

As the mobile web gains traction, operators and governments are trying to figure out how best to deal with inappropriate content. In the UK, Ofcom is currently reviewing the voluntary code of content that mobile operators have in place to protect children, while in Japan, the government is considering filtering the mobile web to block child unfriendly content. 

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