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WWW inventor Sir Tim Berners-Lee warns of 'digital dystopia' as he launches 'web contract'

World wide web founder Sir Tim Berners-Lee has warned of a "digital dystopia" as he launches a global action plan aimed at tackling misuse of the web.

Amid fears of ever-increasing online threats, such as election interference, harassment, invasion of privacy and the spread of disinformation, the British computer scientist is unveiling a string of standards in Berlin later.

The so-called Contract for the Web calls on governments, companies and the public to ensure the web is a safe, free and open platform for everyone.

Although non-binding, the charter has been backed by hundreds of organisations, including Google and Facebook.

"The power of the web to transform people's lives, enrich society and reduce inequality is one of the defining opportunities of our time," Sir Tim said.

"But if we don't act now, and act together, to prevent the web being misused by those who want to exploit, divide and undermine, we are at risk of squandering that potential."

He added: "The Contract for the Web gives us a roadmap to build a better web. But it will not happen unless we all commit to the challenge.

"Governments need to strengthen laws and regulations for the digital age. Companies must do more to ensure pursuit of profit is not at the expense of human rights and democracy.

"And citizens must hold those in power accountable, demand their digital rights be respected and help foster healthy conversation online. It's up to all of us to fight for the web we want."

The contract tells governments to ensure everyone can connect to the internet, that access is not deliberately denied and to respect and protect people's fundamental online privacy and data rights.

Companies are told they should make the internet affordable and accessible to everyone, respect and protect people's privacy and personal data, as well as develop technologies that support the best in humanity and challenge the worst.