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Delicate balance required, as regulators and lobbyist warn of the risks of over-regulation while research indicates users seek greater protection.

By Alain Traill

Both the ICO and the outgoing Chief Executive of Ofcom have sounded a cautious note regarding the possible consequences of UK proposals to introduce a new regulatory regime intended to combat online harms. The Internet Association — a Washington based lobbying group — has also voiced its concerns, suggesting that they risk discouraging businesses from continuing to operate in the UK.

The ICO did, however, offer support for key aspects of the proposals, and acknowledged that they identify an “important gap in the existing regulation of the internet”. Furthermore, research carried out on behalf of both Ofcom and the ICO has shown an increasing appetite for online regulation among UK web users.

Broadly written rules would allow the Russian government greater central control over content and data flows, and greater access to users’ information.

By Fiona M. Maclean and Ksenia Koroleva

On May 1, 2019, the Russian President signed draft law No. 608767-7, commonly referred to as the Russian Internet Law, or “RuNet Law” (Federal Law No. 90-FZ “On Amending Federal Law ‘On Communications’ and Federal Law ‘On Information, Information Technology and Information Protection’”). The majority of RuNet Law amendments will come into effect on November 1, 2019.

The RuNet Law’s principal provisions include:

  • Introducing rules for the centralization and control of data traffic (g., the RuNet Law establishes a centralised Russian Internet data traffic routing system)
  • Requiring entities involved in the transfer of data to install additional equipment and comply with new obligations that aim to ensure such centralization