About us

IMCB's main responsibility is to set a Classification Framework for commercial mobile picture-based content which is now available on many mobile devices. It is the responsibility of content providers to use our Classification Framework and self-classify their own content as 18 where appropriate. Where the content is classified as "18" under the Classification Framework its access will be restricted by the mobile operators until customers have verified their age as 18 or over with their operator.

Commercial content services which fall within IMCB's remit and the Classification Framework include:

• Still pictures
• Video and audiovisual material
• Mobile games, including java-based games

It is our intention that the Classification Framework will be consistent with standards equivalent for other media such as film, video and computer games.

Content accessed via the Internet or WAP where the mobile operator is providing connectivity only falls outside IMCB's remit and Classification Framework as do the following service types:

• Text, audio and voice-only services, including where delivered as a Premium Rate Service and regulated by ICSTIS
• Gambling services (because they are age restricted by UK legislation)
• Moderated and unmoderated chat rooms (commercial unmoderated chat rooms will sit behind Access Controls, however)
• Location-Based Services (which are the subject of a separate mobile operator Code of Practice)
• Content generated by subscribers, including web logs

If any of these services are charged for using premium rate then they are subject to the Code of Practice issued by ICSTIS - the premium rate regulator. For more information on ICSTIS go to www.icstis.org.uk.

IMCB will investigate complaints about the mis-classification of commercial content but in the first instance complaints should be made to your mobile operator.

IMCB is not responsible for setting the controls on mobile devices which may restrict some content being available to children. For more information about this and how to set these controls please contact your mobile operator. Visit the consumers section of this website for contact details of all the mobile operators.