Wikipedia challenging UK law it says exposes it to ‘manipulation and vandalism’
GuardianMAY 19
Wikipedia Challenges UK's Online Safety Act Over Privacy Concerns
Above: Logo of Wikipedia is seen in Ankara, Turkey on November 30, 2019. Image copyright: Ali Balikci/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
The OSA's requirements are essential safeguards designed to protect users from anonymous abuse and harmful content. The verification measures would enhance accountability and help law enforcement tackle criminal behavior online, while the blocking features would give users more control over their online interactions. These protections are crucial for creating a safer digital environment for all U.K. users.
Government-critical narrative
Forcing Wikipedia to implement user verification would fundamentally undermine its collaborative model that has successfully defended information integrity for decades. The requirements would expose volunteer editors to potential harassment, legal threats, and persecution in authoritarian countries, increasing the risk of vandalism and disinformation within our digital landscape.