AKP ally backs social media bill, says VPNs should be banned as well

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New measures should be taken to prevent access to banned websites via virtual private network (VPN) services, according to Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) Vice-Chair Feti Yıldız.

Yıldız's remarks came one day before the parliamentary session on the new social media bill prepared by the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and MHP deputies.

"Terrorist organizations have turned social media into a propaganda tool," and carry out communication activities on these platforms, he said in a written statement.

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"Those who are focused on destroying public morality and family order encourage young people to the use of drugs and stimulants, promote suicide, legitimize perversion such as sexual abuse and pedophilia, encourage heretic sexual orientations and choices," Yıldız stated.

"There are billions of fake social media accounts in the world and millions in our country. All kinds of attacks are made through these accounts. Social media platforms remain insensitive to these events," he further stated.

"In order to prevent access to blocked platforms and banned sites via VPN platforms, new and radical measures should be taken and international cooperation should be developed," he said.

According to the bill, social media companies will be obliged to have a legal representative in Turkey and to store their users' data in the country. The parliament's Justice Committee passed the bill on Friday (July 27). (HA/VK)