eSafety Regulator Accuses Social Media of Monetizing Gore

Australia's eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, stated on Thursday that mainstream social media platforms are actively working to distribute and monetize "gore" and "fringe" content. She made these remarks while giving evidence to the royal commission investigating antisemitism and social cohesion. Grant specifically identified X, formerly known as Twitter, as a platform where her office faces challenges in restricting or removing violent footage. She told the inquiry that they have to "fight" X's owner, Elon Musk, to keep such material, including footage from the Bondi terror attack, off the platform. The commissioner's testimony highlights concerns about the financial incentives driving the spread of harmful content online. The eSafety Commissioner's office is responsible for regulating online safety in Australia and has been actively engaged in efforts to curb the dissemination of illegal and harmful content across various digital platforms. The royal commission is examining the role of social media in the spread of antisemitism and its impact on social cohesion within Australia. Grant's evidence suggests a systemic issue where platforms may prioritize engagement and revenue over user safety and the prevention of harmful content proliferation. The ongoing inquiry aims to understand the extent of these issues and potentially recommend regulatory measures to address them.