Australia’s Online Safety Chief Reports Threats Following Social Media Restrictions
Julie Inman Grant, who leads the country’s eSafety Commission, stated that the backlash escalated after the announcement of measures that would delay children’s access to social media platforms until the age of 16.
She noted that within a short period after public criticism from a prominent tech figure, online hostility toward her surged significantly. Reports indicate that tens of thousands of posts were directed at her in the aftermath, with many described as abusive and some allegedly containing credible threats.
Speaking at a public forum focused on gender equality, she said she had also been targeted through doxing attempts, manipulated media content, and gender-based harassment.
She expressed particular concern about the targeting of her personal life, stating, "My issue is when they dox my children and my family members ... it makes you sit back and go, am I putting my family and my kids in danger, and how do I protect them?"
The regulator raised broader concerns about the risks faced by women in high-profile regulatory positions, suggesting that such roles increasingly resemble public political offices and may require stronger protective measures. She pointed out that while elected officials often receive formal security arrangements, similar protections are not typically provided to regulatory figures.
Despite the intimidation and harassment, she said the incidents have reinforced her commitment to enforcing online safety regulations and that such pressure would not deter her responsibilities.
In related developments, the eSafety Commission recently issued legally binding transparency requirements to several major online gaming platforms. These measures were introduced amid concerns that gaming environments could be exploited by harmful actors, including predators and extremist groups.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
