Strengthening Public WiFi Safety: Supporting Ofcom’s Online Safety Initiative

Ofcom has today released its second Online Safety Industry Bulletin, marking a significant milestone in the UK's commitment to creating a safer digital environment. With the Online Safety Act now in effect, the focus has shifted towards implementing measures that protect users, particularly children, from harmful online content. As a provider of public and guest WiFi services, it's imperative to align with these developments by ensuring robust content filtering solutions are in place.

Understanding Ofcom’s Online Safety Bulletin

Ofcom's latest bulletin underscores the urgency for online services to comply with new regulations aimed at curbing illegal and harmful content. Key highlights include:

• Risk Assessments: A wide range of online services have completed their first risk assessments, with Ofcom analyzing more than 60 from large and higher-risk services.

  
  

• Age Assurance: Publishers of pornography have committed to introducing highly effective age assurance across over 1,300 sites.

  
  

These developments signal a collective move towards a safer online space, emphasizing the need for all digital service providers to evaluate and enhance their safety measures.

The Role of Public WiFi Providers

Public and guest WiFi services are integral to our daily lives, offering connectivity in cafes, hotels, libraries, transport and other communal spaces. However, without proper safeguards, these networks can inadvertently expose users, especially children, to inappropriate or harmful content.

Implementing credible content filtering solutions is not just a best practice—it’s becoming a necessity. Such measures ensure that users are protected from accessing illegal or harmful material, aligning with the broader objectives of the Online Safety Act.

Introducing Friendly WiFi Certification

At Friendly WiFi, we offer the government-initiated certification that signifies a public WiFi service meets the required standards for online safety. Our certification process involves:

• Content Filtering: Ensuring filters are in place to block access to inappropriate content.

• Regular Audits: Conducting checks to maintain compliance with safety standards.

• Visible Signage: Providing a recognisable symbol that inform users of a safe browsing environment.

  
  

By achieving Friendly WiFi certification, businesses demonstrate a proactive approach to user safety, fostering trust and confidence among patrons.

Benefits for Businesses

• Compliance: Align with national regulations and avoid potential penalties.

• Reputation: Enhance your brand image by prioritising customer safety.

• Customer Trust: Provide assurance to users, encouraging repeat business and positive reviews.

  
  

Take Action Today

In light of Ofcom's recent bulletin and the evolving digital landscape, now is the time to evaluate and upgrade your public WiFi services. Friendly WiFi is here to assist you in achieving certification and ensuring your network is safe for all users.

Request an Initial Quote

Request Quote

Visit our website at www.friendlywifi.com to learn more about our certification process and request a personalised quote. You can also take a look at our case studies here.

Together, we can create a safer online environment for everyone.