Northern reveals full list of sites you can't access on board - from Netflix to Tinder
If you've ever attempted to use your phone while travelling by train, you're likely familiar with the frustration of buffering videos and error messages as your signal continually drops. Thankfully, many rail services provide WiFi to keep passengers connected during their journey.
However, even with WiFi, there are times when certain websites and apps just won't load. While it can be annoying to interrupt your Selling Sunset marathon, there's actually a valid reason for this.
Northern, which operates over 500 stations in the north of England, has revealed why certain apps are inaccessible on board - it's all due to restrictions on their on-board WiFi. Provided under the Friendly WiFi scheme, it blocks access to specific types of content.
Apps and websites associated with video streaming, gambling, alcohol, adult content, pornography and nudity are blocked on-board, as are software updates and file sharing services. It's also unfortunate for those seeking romance on the go, as dating sites like Tinder and Bumble are also on the list of blocked sites.
Friendly WiFi ensures that Northern's on-board internet service meets minimum filtering standards considering children could be present. Matt Rice, Chief Operating Officer at Northern, stated: "We welcome millions of people on-board our trains every year and access to safe and reliable internet is part and parcel of our customers' expectations.", reports the Manchester Evening News.
"Whilst some dating websites – and users – will operate with appropriate levels of self-moderation, some might not and it's important that content not suitable for everyone to see or hear - particularly children – isn't viewed on our trains. With some of the other banned categories – it's simply about ensuring that there is sufficient bandwidth for all our customers to use while they're on the go."
The spokesperson also acknowledged the impact on single passengers, adding: "This on-board dating app embargo aside, we wish our single customers all the best in their search for their perfect partner."
This isn't the first time Northern has issued guidelines on mobile phone usage on its trains. Last year, they reminded passengers that 'NSFW content' (Not Suitable For Work) was not appropriate to view on-board its trains.
Content considered 'NSFW' can range from inappropriate jokes and bad language to offensive topics and explicit material.
Northern has been a member of the Friendly WiFi scheme, which is delivered in partnership with the UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS), since 2017. Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, operating nearly 2,500 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.