IMCB, an independent subsidiary of the premium rate regulator ICSTIS, was formed earlier this year with support from network operators like 02, Virgin Mobile, Vodafone, T-Mobile and Orange as an independent body to rate content that is deemed "adult" in categories including gambling, violence, alcohol, sex, dating, chat, nudity and drugs.
According to IMCB, the classification has been designed to be "consistent, as far as is possible" with standards already used in film and game classifications and applies to mobile pictures, video and audiovisual material and mobile games, including Java-based games. However, the standards do not apply to the Internet in general.
So far, only Vodafone and Orange have formally implemented the filtering process, which requires users over 18 to register a full address and credit card details with Bango.net in order opt into being able to access adult content. If a user is unable to prove the credit card belongs to them, then access is denied.
However, Vodafone launched its filtering process before IMCB was set in place, and in doing so fell under heavy criticism from mobile users and site operators for over-classifying "adult" content in a more general category than many users felt was appropriate.
“This is a positive step forward in encouraging responsible access to commercial content," said IMCB Director Paul Whiteing. "However, parents and carriers, with the continuing support of the mobile operators, will still need to play an active role in guiding their children about using their mobile phones appropriately. Some help and advice on this subject can be found on the new IMCB website, and we hope to add to and enhance this information over time.”
02 and T-Mobile expect to have their filters in place by the end of 2005.