Getty Images has released a series of powerful photographs capturing the riots that swept across England in the summer, including in Sunderland. The images depict the chaos and destruction that unfolded during the violent disorder, providing a stark visual representation of the unrest.
According to Ofcom, there was a “clear connection” between the riots in England and Northern Ireland and the spread of illegal content and disinformation on social media and messaging apps. Ofcom boss Dame Melanie Dawes highlighted the role that online platforms played in amplifying divisive narratives during the crisis period, with misinformation spreading rapidly following the stabbings in Southport.
While most online services took swift action to address the spread of illegal content, Dame Melanie noted that the responses of some firms were “uneven.” She emphasized the need for tech companies to have systems in place to quickly take down illegal content and provide effective mechanisms for users to report such content.
The Online Safety Act, which is set to give Ofcom enhanced powers to regulate big tech firms, is expected to provide a framework for tackling disinformation and protecting users from harm. Dame Melanie expressed confidence that the new powers would set clear standards for tech companies to follow in the future.
The unrest in August 2024 was described as the worst seen in the UK in a decade, leading to a wave of arrests and prosecutions, including for online offenses. The role of big tech platforms in the spread of misinformation was heavily scrutinized, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer engaging in a war of words with tech billionaire Elon Musk over the issue.
As the country grapples with the aftermath of the riots, the images captured by Getty Images serve as a reminder of the impact of social media and online platforms on shaping public opinion and influencing events during times of crisis.
