The government has announced plans to introduce legislation forcing tech firms to block access to nude images on devices used by under-18s, with Apple and Google given three months to comply. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stressed that despite commitments from tech giants, stronger measures are required to combat the issue.

The new law will impact both operating systems and apps, aiming to create a safer online environment for children. Apple and Google have already made significant changes, but critics argue more needs to be done. The NSPCC and other charities have welcomed the proposals, urging the government to act swiftly.

Government proposals are part of the broader strategy to combat violence against women and girls, but critics have accused the government of being slow to implement measures. The legislation will not prevent adults from accessing such images, but it could require checking the age of users to block access for children.

Privacy concerns have been raised by online rights campaigners, warning that implementing the changes could lead to every adult needing to pass through a digital ID checkpoint, with private images potentially being scanned by default.

The government has dismissed these concerns, stating that the move does not constitute surveillance.