Following the public outcry against the ‘News-in-Motion’ computer animation provided by the Next Media, Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin called a press conference on November 25 to announce the City’s decision on fining the company NT$500,000 for violating media classification regulations.
The service introduced by the company in November offers animated sequences for news that depict the scenes of crimes such as murder, sexual assault, and suicide. These clips can be viewed online. Viewers can also download the content via mobile phones.
Hau said he watched one of the graphic news sequences, and he believes that the clips would have a negative impact upon teenagers and children. Citing Article 12 of the Children and Juveniles Welfare Act, the city government has decided to take action against the company by imposing a strict fine of NT$500,000.
The mayor stressed that the City will continue to fine the company until it complies with content classification regulations. He reiterated the City’s determination to protect teenagers and children and will continue to impose strict checks on sensational videos.