How Internet Censorship Works

Summary

The video script discusses internet censorship, revealing it's not limited to authoritarian regimes but occurs globally. It explains how private corporations and ISPs act as gatekeepers, influenced by governments or their own initiatives. Examples include China's self-discipline awards for internet companies and actions by Google, Facebook, Flickr, and Apple. The script emphasizes the importance of transparency and awareness, encouraging reporting censorship to HER.ORG.

Takeaways

• 🌐 The internet is not as free and open as it seems; it's controlled by private corporations.
• 🏢 In China, the government instructs ISPs and content hosts to police the internet and rewards companies that contribute to a 'harmonious' internet.
• 🏆 Companies like Robin Li's Baidu have received 'self-discipline awards' for their role in Chinese internet censorship.
• 🗳️ Censorship isn't limited to authoritarian regimes; it also occurs in Western democracies.
• 🔍 Google has been transparent about government requests to block or remove content, releasing data about these requests.
• 📊 The Open Net Initiative research shows state-sponsored internet censorship in dozens of countries, not just authoritarian ones.
• 📢 ISPs and platforms act as intermediaries, sometimes censoring content due to government pressure or their own initiatives.
• 📸 Facebook and Flickr have been known to remove content, sometimes for violating their own community guidelines or terms of service.
• 🍎 Apple exercises strict control over its App Store, removing apps for various reasons, including public pressure and their own discretion.
• 🚫 Censorship can be dangerous for a healthy society, as it limits information flow and can be influenced by risk-averse corporate policies.
• 🌍 Awareness of global censorship is crucial; if you encounter blocked content, report it to help.org to increase transparency.

Q & A

What is the main issue discussed in the script?

The script discusses the issue of internet censorship and how it is not limited to authoritarian regimes but also occurs in Western democracies. It highlights how private corporations play a significant role in controlling what users can see and say on the internet.

How does the Chinese government approach internet censorship?

The Chinese government actively instructs internet service providers and content hosts to police their services. They even award companies that contribute to a 'harmonious and healthy internet' with 'internet self-discipline awards'.

What is the role of private sector companies in Chinese internet censorship?

In China, private sector companies act as an extension of state power, carrying out censorship and surveillance primarily through internet service providers and platforms.

Why did Google start releasing data about government requests?

Google started releasing data about government requests to increase transparency and inform the public about the challenges companies face when governments ask them to block or remove content.

What challenges do internet service providers face regarding government requests?

Internet service providers face challenges in maintaining transparency and balancing legal requirements with ethical considerations when governments ask them to block or remove content.

How does the lack of transparency affect the understanding of internet censorship?

The lack of transparency makes it difficult for the public to know what governments are requesting from companies and how companies are responding, which can lead to a misunderstanding of the extent and nature of internet censorship.

What examples are given of private companies controlling information flow?

Examples include Facebook removing pictures of protests, Flickr deleting uploaded photos of Egyptian police officers, and Apple exercising control over their App Store by filtering apps based on various criteria.

Why did Apple remove the 'baby shaking game' from its App Store?

Apple removed the 'baby shaking game' from its App Store due to public pressure and concerns about the game promoting child abuse, which is associated with 'shaking baby syndrome'.

What is the significance of the app 'Freedom Time' mentioned in the script?

The app 'Freedom Time' was a countdown timer to the end of George W. Bush's presidential term. Apple removed it from the App Store, illustrating how companies can censor content that might be controversial or politically sensitive.

Why is it important to be aware of internet censorship practices worldwide?

Being aware of internet censorship practices is important because it helps individuals understand the limitations of online freedom and the potential biases in the information they access. It also encourages transparency and can lead to more informed discussions about internet governance.

What can people do if they suspect internet censorship?

If people suspect internet censorship, they can report it to organizations like Herdict to help make censorship more transparent. Additionally, they can visit websites like the Berkman Klein Center for more information on the topic.