An official portal for reporting unlawful Internet content and behavior
The Ministry of the Interior has just established a portal permitting Internet users to report unlawful content or behavior. The reports are handled by police and law enforcement officers assigned to the PHAROS platform (Platform for Harmonization, Analysis, Recovery and Orientation of Alerts) which is part of the OCLTIC (Central Office for Fighting Information Technologies and Communication Crime).
A variety of pedagogical material under various headings and in French can be accessed from this new portal:
- Comment protéger son ordinateur? (How can one protect one's computer?);
- Internet prudent (Prudent use of the Internet);
- Conseils aux jeunes (Tips for young users);
- Conseils aux parents (Tips for parents).
The Ministry of the Interior notes that "the Internet is a place of freedom for individuals to communicate, make discoveries and grow. The rights of all, regardless of age, origin or affinities, must be respected there, so that the "Net" remains a place for exchange and respect. Parents must be able to let their children navigate and communicate without their being exposed to harmful content or in contact with persons with harmful intentions. The Internet must not be diverted from its objectives for unlawful purposes. This is why the public authorities have made this portal available to you. By clicking on the "SIGNALER" button, you can report unlawful content or behaviors you have been faced with during your use of the Internet. You should not have to concern yourself with "who do I report this to?" Your alert will be oriented and handled by the right department. It may give rise to the judicial authorities taking action."
The website for reporting unlawful content and behaviors can be accessed at the following address
https://www.internet-signalement.gouv.fr
Anne-Katel Martineau,
Attorney- Member of the Paris Bar