New Apple Feature Allows Children To Report Nudes Directly Through iMessage In Australia

Apple is introducing a new safety feature to its iMessage platform in Australia, allowing children to report nude images and videos directly to the company, as reported yesterday by The Guardian.

This new feature comes at a time when the Australian government is considering stricter social media regulations, including age restrictions for children and teenagers.

This enhancement is part of the latest beta release of Apple’s updated operating systems and aims to strengthen existing communication safety measures.

The Guardian notes that since iOS 17, Apple has offered safety features designed to detect nudity in images or videos sent to users under 13. This detection occurs directly on the device, ensuring privacy while identifying inappropriate content in iMessage, AirDrop, FaceTime, and Photos.

When such content is detected, two intervention screens appear, encouraging the child to either access resources or contact a parent or guardian before proceeding, as noted by The Guardian.

The latest update extends this feature, giving children the option to report inappropriate content. When the warning screen appears, they can now report the image or video to Apple, as reported by The Guardian.

The device will create a report, including the offending image or video, messages exchanged before and after the content was sent, and the contact information of both parties. Additionally, users can provide a description of the incident using a dedicated form, as reported by The Guardian.

Apple will then review the report and may take actions, such as disabling the sender’s ability to use iMessage. The Guardian also notes that in cases involving illegal content, Apple may also involve law enforcement.

According to The Guardian, Apple intends to roll out the new feature globally, though no specific timeline has been provided. Apple has not yet responded to a request for comment.