header-logo header-logo

11 March 2010 / Sharon Mitchell
Issue: 7408 / Categories: Features , Media , LexisPSL , Technology
printer mail-detail

Where does the virtual buck stop?

The modern child’s relationship with the mobile phone is complex. He is a provider and a receiver of content, a potential customer, and a potential supplier of goods/services by on-line shopping, transferring media files, etc.

The modern child’s relationship with the mobile phone is complex. He is a provider and a receiver of content, a potential customer, and a potential supplier of goods/services by on-line shopping, transferring media files, etc.

Much of this is done at the expense of a parent who contracts as subscriber to obtain the service. A range of legal issues arise. Mobile phone contracts which offer “free” devices leave the user with little perception of the cost of the physical device. In contrast, considerable personal value is placed on the content which carries with it issues of data protection and confidentiality. Data protection law involves concepts of consent.

Under the UK law, children have rights of privacy and confidentiality. In addition, the principles set down in Gillick v West Norfolk and Wisbech Area Health Authority

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Church Court Chambers—Maryam Syed KC

Church Court Chambers—Maryam Syed KC

Church Court Chambers welcomes Maryam Syed KC

Devonshires—Sean Garbutt

Devonshires—Sean Garbutt

Devonshires strengthens construction team with appointment of partner Sean Garbutt

Thackray Williams—Alexandra Hubbard

Thackray Williams—Alexandra Hubbard

Thackray Williams strengthens employment team with dual-qualified solicitor

NEWS
Judges and lawyers reviewing the rules of disclosure have ruled out a return to the old system of CPR Part 31, and will consult on proposals to simplify the Practice Direction (PD) 57AD regime by early next year
A consumer organisation has hit back at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for encouraging motor finance compensation claimants to steer clear of law firms and claims management companies
A fast, free and anonymous piece of software has been launched to help law practices comply with their regulatory duty to guard against an increasing onslaught of cyberattacks
A mood of cautious optimism has enveloped the criminal law sector following indications the prime minister may abandon planned jury reforms
The Court of Appeal has held user damages are recoverable in a competition claim, in Meta Platforms Inc and other companies v Gormsen [2026] EWCA Civ 993
back-to-top-scroll