The Telecommunications Carriers’ Forum (TCF) has issued its updated Code of Practice for the Provision of Content via Mobile Phones (the Mobile Content Code) for public consultation.
The Mobile Content Code was first developed in 2005 for the voluntary self-regulation of commercial content services provided via mobile phones. It sets out industry-agreed principles to ensure that mobile content services are provided in a socially responsible manner.
The Code covers issues relating to a wide range of commercial services, Internet content, illegal content, unsolicited bulk communications, and malicious communications. This includes an position on the protection of minors from inappropriate content.
“The development of this Code demonstrates that the industry is acting responsibly to ensure that the content provided via mobile phones is safe and appropriate for all end users,” TCF CEO, Ralph Chivers said.
“The Code provides assurance to both businesses and consumers – and particularly to parents – that telecommunications service providers will take action against inappropriate or illegal content.”
Telecommunications service providers will also support the Code by providing customers with information and education on the safe and appropriate use of mobile content services.
“The TCF is particularly interested in the views of mobile providers and content providers, as well as consumer stakeholder groups on the updated draft Code,” Mr Chivers said.
The Mobile Content Code was first developed in 2005, then reviewed in 2007 under TCF’s two year code review policy. The feedback received at the last review indicated some minor changes were required. These changes are included in the current version for public consultation.
Public submissions close on 7 October 2008. A copy of the Code and the process for making submissions is available on the TCF website: www.tcf.org.nz/mobile.
The draft Code will be updated following the close of submissions and is expected to be finalised by late 2008.
