Voluntary code for ISPs comes into force in Australia

It has been announced that a voluntary code for Internet service providers has come into force in Australia, with the focus on getting ISPs to assist in protecting Australian consumers from online threats.

A recent announcement has been made by Attorney-General Robert McClelland and the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, confirming that a voluntary code has come into force for Internet providers in order to help protect consumers in Australia from online threats.

With broadband and internet now so widely accessible many people could find themselves at risk of online threats, and the reasoning behind the decision to introduce this voluntary code is to get ISPs, as a front line service, to help protect Australian consumers from these online threats.

A set of guidelines will be launched as part of the ISP Code of Practice on Cyber Security. Known as the ‘icode’ the code has been developed by the Internet Industry Association in partnership with the Australian Government. McClelland said that ISPs had a very important part to play in protecting consumers against cyber threats.

He said: “The Government’s Cyber Security Strategy recognises that ISPs occupy a unique position as Australian’s gateway to the Internet and are crucial in protecting the cyber security of internet users.” Conroy added: “The Code of Practice provides a consistent approach to help ISPs inform, educate and protect their customers in relation to cyber security issues. It is a positive step that has attracted significant international interest, and I encourage all Australian ISPs to sign on and comply with it.”

Do you think that the icode will help to protect internet users in Australia? Leave your comments and let us know

Source – Attorney General