Every tip we receive from internet users counts

For each report, Stopline checks whether the reported material meets the definition of child sexual abuse material or National Socialist content.

Illegal content: the authorities are immediately notified

After receiving a report, Stopline employees analyse the content to establish whether it is actually illegal according to Austrian law. If it is, Stopline notifies the relevant executive agency immediately: Investigating child sexual abuse material falls under the remit of the Federal Criminal Police Office (BK), while the Federal Office for Protection of the Constitution and Counterterrorism (BVT) is responsible for investigating National Socialist material. In addition, any affected providers in Austria are notified or the corresponding overseas partner hotlines operated by members of INHOPE, the umbrella organisation against illegal content on the internet, which are also responsible for initiating any further measures.

Illegal content in Austria: cooperation with providers

When it comes to processing illegal content, the country of origin of the provider plays a decisive role. If the content is hosted by an Austrian internet service provider, Stopline contacts the host provider asking them to remove the content from the internet so that it can no longer be accessed online. Stopline does not delete or censor any allegedly illegal material itself. Instead, it gives providers recommendations on how to proceed if any is discovered.

If Stopline receives reports of other potentially illegal material that does not fall under its specific remit, the organisation’s employees will still try to provide assistance by sharing additional sources of information and details of the right organisation or body to contact.