Australia to block domains containing extremist material during attacks

The Australian government will block internet domains that host terrorist material in future attacks. In addition, the country is considering passing a law requiring digital platforms to improve the security of their services.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is currently attending the G7 summit in France, said in a statement that he would do everything he could to prevent terrorists from glorifying their actions over the internet. He means, among other things, the live streaming of terrorist attacks, and the leaving behind manifestos and other documents.

The country’s eSafety Commissioner will determine which domains should be blocked during a crisis situation, through a method yet to be determined. In addition, a crisis coordination center will monitor violent and extremist material around the clock.

According to Reuters, Australia is also considering legislation requiring internet companies to improve the security of their services. However, it is not clear what the sanctions are if a company ignores the new guidelines or is unable to implement them.

Both Australia and New Zealand have already tightened their surveillance of websites and social media after 51 people were killed in a terrorist attack in Christchurch in March. The attacker had livestreamed the attack via Facebook.