The UK is asking Android/iOS to help ban pornography if users don't verify their identity as adults.

 

The British government, or the UK government, has always been very sensitive about issues of sex and violence, as evidenced by its recurring bans on games and media with sensitive content. Now, the British government has requested that Apple and Google block the taking and sharing of nude images on their operating systems.

According to the Financial Times, the UK Home Secretary and other government officials want Apple and Google to prevent users from taking or sharing nude images. Users wishing to take, view, or share such images would need to verify their adult identity by showing identification or using facial scanning.

This might imply that the British government wants such a protection system to be built into Android and iOS operating systems. From a privacy perspective, this request might be excessive, as such a system could be seen as tantamount to surveillance. However, from a cybersecurity standpoint, this system could significantly protect children from pedophilia.