Microsoft Bing Launches Child Abuse Warning

Microsoft has launched a ‘pop-up’ warning telling UK users of its Bing search engine that they are searching for illegal child abuse images. The move follows plans outlined by the Prime Minister, David Cameron, to make possessing violent pornography a crime in England and Wales and impose tough new laws on internet firms failing to block key search terms for child abuse images. IBB’s team of child abuse solicitors are available to provide advice on child abuse compensation claims for anyone who was abused as a child.

Warning On Child Abuse Searches

Microsoft said that anyone using Bing to search for child abuse material will trigger a warning system – the Bing Notification Platform – telling them the content they are looking for is against the law and providing a link to a counselling service. A Microsoft spokesman said:

“If someone in the UK tries to use search terms on Bing which can only indicate they are looking for illegal child abuse content, they will activate the Bing Notification Platform which will produce an on-screen notification telling them that child abuse content is illegal. The notification will also contain a link to Stopitnow.org who will be able to provide them with counselling.”

The notification platform is triggered by search terms on a list provided by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP), Microsoft said. Andy Baker, CEOP’s deputy chief executive, welcomed the creation of the device but said it was the first step towards blocking access to the illegal images and videos, and protect children. “While the Bing project isn’t the whole solution, I hope it goes some way to making those who are curious about searching for indecent images think again,” he said. If you want to enquire about making a claim, you can speak to a child abuse solicitor on 01895 207835 or 01895 207295. Alternatively, you can send an email with your name and contact information and brief details to PI@ibblaw.co.uk and a member of our child abuse compensation claims team will be able to help you.