Some large ISP's here in the Netherlands will block about 3000 websites, which are known to host child pornography. Several other ISP's are thinking to follow. Even my own ISP XS4ALL is looking into it. There's nothing wrong with blocking access to these websites, because in my opinion you may shoot them onsite, and hang them by their balls who trades or deals child pornography. On the Internet, or in real life.
The question is; Is blocking content it a good idea? I have my doubts;
B.t.w. If you're a customer of one of the ISP's, you have the opportunity to object/complain against blocking these websites. Don't think that that will happen a lot though :-) .
The question is; Is blocking content it a good idea? I have my doubts;
- Who decides if a website is really hosting child pornography. Most of these websites deal with it behind close doors. You have to get in to get access. Which organization is maintaining the list, AND who verifies the list. It won't be the first time that websites get banned for all the wrong reasons.
- What's next to be blocked? Websites about abortion? gay people? satanism?
Let's face it, more and more stuff is being controlled, and/or censored around the world. What will become of our freedom of speech, and privacy. Where will it end? - Die-hard sicko's know about the dangers of searching for their 'fix'. These 'people' won't use the normal routes to get their stuff. Anonymous proxies (like the TOR network), and alternative networks like Freenet will become more popular.
B.t.w. If you're a customer of one of the ISP's, you have the opportunity to object/complain against blocking these websites. Don't think that that will happen a lot though :-) .