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Reporting Process
1. Submitting a Report
Users can report problematic or illegal content via our website and reporting portal, such as hate speech, depictions of violence, abuse material, phishing or fraud.
Reports can be submitted anonymously.
2. Review of the Report
Our youthprotect team assesses the reported content and examines whether it violates applicable laws or platform rules.
3. Forwarding Reports to Platforms or Providers
If violations are identified, the content is reported to the relevant online platforms, hosting providers or registrars. As a so-called “Trusted Flagger”, youthprotect can submit reports with priority on certain platforms.
4. Law Enforcement
If content appears to be criminal in nature, the information may, according to youthprotect, be forwarded to the relevant law enforcement authorities.
5. Removal or Blocking
The aim is to have the content removed or the relevant websites shut down and, where applicable, to facilitate the criminal prosecution of those responsible.
Complaints Procedure
When Can a Complaint Be Submitted?
If, for example, you disagree with a decision to restrict your account, if you have been insulted and/or threatened, or if false information is involved, you have the option of submitting a complaint to the provider, the relevant platform, the authorities or other appropriate bodies.
A complaint may also be submitted if you firmly believe that the removal of content was incorrect and/or unjustified.
How to Submit a Complaint
Option 1:
Open the notification concerning the relevant decision and select “Submit a complaint.” Write an explanation outlining why you believe the decision was incorrect and then submit it.
Option 2:
Contact the website, platform, operator or relevant body directly, explain the matter and submit your reasons.
Option 3:
In serious cases where there is a suspicion of a criminal offence, you may contact the relevant authorities, counselling services or, where appropriate, a lawyer.
Option 4:
Contact our association, Youthprotect e.V., directly or use our reporting portal at youthprotect.de.
Review of the Complaint
Every complaint is reviewed carefully and impartially.
The relevant information, as well as the applicable legal requirements and guidelines, are taken into consideration.
Outcome of the Review
Once the review has been completed, you will be informed of the outcome. If the complaint is found to be justified, the appropriate measures will be initiated, corrected or revoked.
Further Options
Where available, further out-of-court dispute resolution bodies or other forms of legal assistance may be used after completion of the internal complaints procedure.
Alternative Dispute Resolution Bodies
Alternative dispute resolution bodies support consumers and businesses in resolving disputes without going to court. As neutral mediators, they help the parties involved find a fair and mutually acceptable solution.
When Can Alternative Dispute Resolution Bodies Help?
They can assist with problems involving online purchases and/or services, disputes concerning contracts, invoices or services provided, or situations where a direct agreement with the company could not be reached.
Advantages
Faster resolution than court proceedings, usually free of charge or associated with only minor costs, and independent and neutral mediation.
Important Notice
Participation in an alternative dispute resolution procedure is not always mandatory for a company. Therefore, please check in advance whether the company concerned participates in such a procedure or is legally required to do so.
Further information on consumer dispute resolution in Germany is available from the Universal Arbitration Board of the Federal Government (Universalschlichtungsstelle des Bundes).
