Laws preventing distribution of images without consent give govt more control: expert

This according to CEO of Worldwide Works Arthur Goldstuck.

Goldstuck's comments come on the back of government's publication the updated Films and Publications Amendment (FPA) Act.

The amendments, which came into effect on Tuesday, prohibit the sharing of intimate images of an individual without their consent.

Deputy Communications Minister Philly Mapulane says the amendment act comes into play at a time when governments all over the world are grappling with the escalation of potentially harmful content on digital platforms.

"The Amendment Act is set to transform the FPB completely, expanding its mandate and migrating it from a simple classification authority to a fully-fledged regulator, with the legitimate powers to issue and renew licences (certificates), accredit distributors, and impose fines, in case of non-compliance," says Mapulane.

Goldstuck believes the changes will give government tighter control on online content.

"The truth is that government is very quiet about censorship provisions and the ability to control content in general, while they make a big noise about protecting children and adults from revenge pornography, the laws are already in place to deal with those kinds of issues and the real extension we see now are really designed to increase government's control on who can publish what online.

"The new provisions are that the Films and Publications board can require anyone who posts content online, streaming content, YouTube videos et cetera, can be required to be licences by the board. Obviously is not feasible but that what the law implies," Goldstuck adds.

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