The designation represents a significant step forward in improving the handling and escalation of reports relating to illegal online content, particularly in relation to children.

Coimisiún na Meán, under the European Union’s Digital Services Act, has declared the Irish Internet Hotline (IIH) a ‘Trusted Flagger’. This recognises the IIH’s expertise and track record in the tracking and reporting of illegal content, such as intimate image abuse, financial scams, racism and child sexual abuse material. 

Established in 1999, the IIH is Ireland’s national reporting centre, through which members of the public can securely and anonymously report suspected illegal or harmful content. The organisation is a member of the Inhope network and the Irish Safer Internet Centre, and works closely with An Garda Síochána as well as international partners. 

In order to qualify for Trusted Flagger status, organisations must prove that they are independent from online platform providers, show significant subject-matter expertise and indicate a consistent history of accurate, diligent and objective reporting.

As a Trusted Flagger, notices submitted by the IIH will be prioritised and processed without undue delay, and the group will be supported in the faster assessment and removal of illegal content. There will be strengthened cooperation between the IIH and online platforms, regulators and other stakeholders, and it will benefit from additional support for the sharing of insights and best practices on emerging online threats and systemic risks. 

Commenting on the announcement, Mick Moran, the CEO of Irish Internet Hotline, said, “We’re delighted to have been granted Trusted Flagger status by Coimisiún na Meán. The designation reflects the expertise and experience our team has developed in identifying and reporting illegal content within our areas of competency. 

“We’re proud of the work we do and the standards we apply to it. Trusted Flagger status formalises an approach we’ve already been taking for nearly three decades and strengthens our ability to ensure that high-quality reports are prioritised and acted on appropriately. 

“We welcome the recognition of Irish Internet Hotline as a knowledge and skills-based expert in this area and look forward to partnership with Coimisiún na Meán in our shared mission to make the internet safer for all users, especially children.”

In early May, Coimisiún na Meán opened dual investigations into Meta to assess issues related to how its recommender systems promote content on Facebook and Instagram, and whether it is in breach of the EU Digital Services Act. The watchdog announced that it is investigating concerns that Meta is preventing users from actively selecting the content that appears in their Instagram and Facebook feeds. 

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