UK government introduces tough new offence targeting social media posts promoting illegal immigration
A major legal reform has been unveiled by the UK government aimed at disrupting the business model of organised criminal gangs who advertise illegal small boat crossings and other immigration offences on social media.
Under a new amendment to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, a UK-wide offence will be introduced to criminalise the creation and publication of online content that promotes or offers services designed to breach UK immigration laws. This includes encouraging small boat Channel crossings, advertising fake documents such as passports and visas, or promising illegal work opportunities in the UK.
The move comes as part of the government’s wider Plan for Change, and is designed to target the digital footprint of people smuggling operations.
Home Office data reveals that around 80% of migrants who arrive via small boats report having used social media to contact agents or facilitators tied to organised crime groups.
A Home Office spokesperson said:
“Many migrants are lured by false promises online, risking their lives based on misleading content. This new offence will give law enforcement more power to take down harmful posts and prosecute those promoting these dangerous and illegal journeys.”
The proposed offence will also cover paid content – where individuals are compensated by smuggling gangs to share or promote posts that encourage people to enter the UK unlawfully.
Those convicted under the new law could face up to five years in prison and a significant fine.
The government says the measure will help build stronger cases against traffickers and act as a deterrent to those who might consider aiding their promotion of illegal immigration online.