Apple to Roll Out Child Sexual Abuse Material Reporting Feature Globally

Apple to Roll Out Child Sexual Abuse Material Reporting Feature Globally Apple has announced that starting with iOS 18.2, children will be able to report inappropriate photos and videos in iMessages

Apple to Roll Out Child Sexual Abuse Material Reporting Feature Globally

Apple has announced that starting with iOS 18.2, children will be able to report inappropriate photos and videos in iMessages. This feature, initially launched in Australia, aims to combat child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

Tech media outlet MacRumors recently published a blog post reporting on this new feature. Apple will reportedly review these reports and take subsequent actions, such as disabling the sender's Apple account and reporting the incident to law enforcement.

This initiative stems from new regulations in Australia requiring tech companies to take stronger measures against CSAM on their platforms by the end of 2024. The Australian government believes that tech companies need to take more responsibility in protecting children from sexually abusive content.

Apple has stated that this feature will be gradually rolled out globally but did not provide a specific timeframe.

CSAM refers to any sexually explicit material involving minors (typically under 18 years old), including photos, videos, or computer-generated images, and is considered illegal content. Apple hopes that this feature will make it easier for children to report CSAM and provide law enforcement with more leads so they can take timely action to protect children from harm.

The launch of this feature marks a significant step for Apple in combating CSAM. The company stated it will continue to work with law enforcement and other organizations to fight CSAM and protect children's safety.

In recent years, with the rapid development of internet technology, the spread of CSAM has become easier. Many criminals use the internet to spread and acquire CSAM, causing significant harm to children. To fight CSAM, governments and tech companies around the world are constantly strengthening cooperation, enacting stricter laws and regulations, and developing new technological means to protect children from harm.

Apple's move is undoubtedly a crucial step in combating CSAM, and it is believed that this feature will effectively help law enforcement combat CSAM crimes and protect children's safety.