Sky Broadband to Block Porn by Default in 2016

From the start of 2016, UK internet service provider Sky Broadband will automatically block “adult content”, including pornography, by default, according to The Telegraph. Sky will be implementing its existing Broadband Shield content filter – a system that was previously optional to customers – as standard for its new customers. Existing customers will be contacted in the coming weeks to ask if they would like the filter turned on. If Sky does not receive a response to the e-mail query, it will turn the filter on without permission.

The move follows legislation introduced by UK Prime Minister David Cameron two years ago that requires ISPs to implement ‘opt out’ adult content filters. Other ISPs, such as BT, Virgin Media, and TalkTalk, have already introduced similar default porn blocks, despite the legislation being found to be in breach of the European Union’s current net neutrality rules.

“We believe that this ‘default on’ approach will mean much greater use of home filters and ensure a safer internet experience for millions of homes,” Lyssa McGowan, Sky’s Brand Director for Communications Products, said. “It came about as we looked for the best way to meet the Prime Minister’s objective of providing more protection for children when they use the internet.”