Summary
In a report by Ofcom, sportspeople and broadcasters shared their experiences with severe online abuse. The report highlights fears that this abuse could lead to suicide and calls for social media platforms to enhance user protection.
Key Facts
- Ofcom is a UK regulator that studied online abuse against sportspeople.
- Figures like Azeem Rafiq and Eni Aluko shared their experiences with abuse for the report.
- Some interviewees reported mental health impacts like anxiety and fear from the abuse.
- Ofcom's report suggests that current tools like blocking accounts are not sufficient.
- The UK Online Safety Act requires social media companies to protect users from illegal abuse.
- The new law became effective in October 2023, with some parts yet to be implemented.
- Ofcom is developing a code of practice for social media companies to improve safety.
- The report includes a fear that online abuse might lead to suicides in the sports sector.
