The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) has had to pay ISPs more than £170,000 in charges during its investigations over the last two years.
Paul Clarke, corporate director of children's services at Harrow Council and a CEOP board member, described the charges, which were uncovered by a freedom of information request, as "repugnant."
He added: "I find it disappointing that some commercial ISPs are prepared to charge to provide information which, ultimately, is being requested to protect young people. I can't think of any other industry where commercial companies charge the police or other official bodies when they are asked for help in an investigation."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
