UK has clearly stated in their new law that social media houses like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter will be slapped with “substantial” fines or U.K. ban if they don’t remove content that encourages terrorism and child sexual exploitation and abuse. The Home Office also stated that the directors of the company could be held personally liable if illegal content is not taken down expeditiously and within the stipulated time-frame.

The exact amount of the fine will be determined during a 12 week consultation following the legislation’s launch on Monday. Through this spread of fake news during elections can also be handled.

The new law has been framed keeping in mind the depressing terrorist attack in New Zealand’s Christchurch that claimed the lives of around 50 Muslims. The gunman who had streamed live as the attack unfolded. Another case in the UK of the Molly Russell was also taken into consideration while framing the new law. 14-year-old girl named Molly Russell took her own life in the 2017. When her family had looked into her Instagram account, they found distressing material about depression and suicide. Hence, Molly's father Ian stated that Instagram to a great extent is responsible for his daughter's death.

“Put simply, the tech companies have not done enough to protect their users and stop this shocking content from appearing in the first place. Our new proposals will protect U.K. citizens and ensure tech firms will no longer be able to ignore their responsibilities”, stated Sajid Javid in a statement released by his office. The law hasd also stated Annual reports on what companies have done to remove and block harmful content will be timely provided. Sites for kids will be required to block harmful content such as violent imagery or porn.

Also Read: Media houses to pay hefty price for not taking down inappropriate content expeditiously

Earlier, Australia had also come up with more strict laws for the regulation of social media sites after the Christchurch mosques terror attack. The law stated if the media houses including Google, Twitter, and Facebook fail to remove photos and videos posted on their platforms that show murder, torture, or rape, criminal charges will be filed against them, as soon as possible.