Social media giants failing on racist abuse, says ex-footballer Anton Ferdinand

Ferdinand, 36, highlighted the addictive nature of social media and the ‘mental health issue of not being able to escape it’. — Unsplash

LONDON: Social media companies need to act immediately to end racial abuse, former footballer Anton Ferdinand said on Sept 8, warning that online hate could even be fatal.

The ex-West Ham defender’s call came as he gave evidence to a parliamentary committee scrutinising the British government’s plan to tighten online safety laws.