Safe spaces online: What tech companies owe their users

These days, people use online platforms for almost everything. They shop, work, chat, and share ideas. These spaces make life easier, but they also bring issues like bullying, scams, unsafe content, and even harm to the environment.

Online platforms hold a lot of influence, so tech companies must consider more than making profits. They must keep people safe, treat workers fairly, and be open about how their platforms work. This blog explores how online platforms can protect users and provide everyone with safer spaces.

Why online platforms must do better: Ethics in the online era

Being ethical online means acting with honesty, keeping all users safe, and preventing harm. This includes caring for customers, workers, and suppliers. Many firm leaders show good examples by setting rules focusing on safety and openness. For instance, the Stake owner supports responsible gaming by offering tools like betting limits and self-exclusion so users can stay in control. This shows that profit and responsible action can work together.

Here are ways platforms can protect people online:

• Protect user privacy: Handle personal data with care and never sell it without consent.

• Remove harmful content: Delete fake reviews, hate speech, and dangerous posts right away.

• Treat workers fairly: Give fair pay, safe working conditions, and benefits to all workers, including contractors and freelancers.

How to prevent online harm to users

Safety goes beyond removing bad posts. It also means stopping harm before it happens. A recent study found that 57% of women business leaders in some countries have faced online harassment. Many avoid promoting their brands online, which leads to less income and fewer chances to grow. Platforms can take steps to prevent this, including:

• Using smart tools and human checks to find abuse early.

• Setting clear behaviour rules and acting fast against bullying or harassment.

• Giving users simple options to control who can view their posts and data.

New rules for a safer online experience

Some countries now expect more from tech firms. They want platforms to step in before harm happens. In Australia, a proposed rule called the ‘Digital Duty of Care’ would require platforms to be legally responsible for preventing harm like bullying, predatory behaviour, and harmful algorithm-driven content. 

It would also ban children under 16 from using sites like X, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Supporters say this will push companies to act faster. Meanwhile, critics warn that banning children may reduce the pressure to make platforms safer. European countries have taken similar steps, but firms still need to protect users since it’s the right thing to do.

Building trust through honesty and respect

Trust grows when platforms are fair and honest. People stay longer on platforms they can rely on. 

Here are some ways to build that trust:

• Be clear about paid content terms, and ensure partners and joint projects match the brand’s voice.

• Treat all users with respect, even during disagreement.

• Listen to and value user feedback to maintain a healthy community.

Work together to make online platforms safe

Safety is a shared duty between platforms, investors, and users. Online spaces must allow people to connect, create, and learn without fear. When people feel safe, they stay active, share ideas, and help the platform grow. 

The duty doesn't fall only on tech leaders. Investors and other backers also play a part. Even a Stake founder can guide how a platform sets its rules and protects its users. Safe spaces help everyone, so every part of the company should work to build them.