U stands for 'Universal', meaning the film, video or DVD is suitable for anyone. Examples include Nanny McPhee and Madagascar.PG stands for 'Parental Guidance', which means that some parts of the film might not be ideal for younger children... Parents ought to think carefully before taking them! Recent examples are Bewitched and Chronicles of Narnia.12A is only for films released at the cinema. It tells parents that the film is best suited for those aged 12 and above. Parents can take along under-12s if they choose, so long as they accompany them. Example: King Kong 12 is now only ever seen on videos and DVDs. As with the 12A, it tells parents that the content is best suited for those aged 12 and above. Recent examples, all of which were also certified 12A for cinema, include Batman Begins and Hitch. 15 tells us that the film, video or DVD is really only suitable for those aged 15 or above. Only people aged 15 or older are allowed to view a 15-rated film at the cinema.18 tells us that the film, video or DVD is only suitable for adults (people aged eighteen or more). Only adults are allowed to view an 18-rated film at the cinema.

DVDs
Video Games Parents Info

Introducing BBFC.online

Independent research indicates that 84% of adults (91% of parents) want to see BBFC film and DVD classification on downloadable or streamed films and other digital audiovisual content.

In response to this demand the BBFC has launched ‘BBFC.online’, a scheme which classifies online media content such as video-on-demand and streamed video which is offered to the public through websites, set-top boxes and portable media devices.

The scheme uses the BBFC’s existing classification criteria, category symbols and consumer advice.

Do all download movies and programmes have a BBFC.online certificate?

No, the scheme is voluntary. The BBFC cannot force any company to join the scheme but many have.

What does it cost me?

These companies pay to belong to the Scheme and follow its rules. There is no cost to you as a consumer.

How does it help me?


The rules include clear labelling before purchase, requirements for age verification, and parental access control systems to prevent underage purchasing and viewing (‘gate- keeping’) that the BBFC will monitor.

Websites that contain content which has been classified have the BBFC.online symbol clearly displayed.

                                                                     

How do I know a download has been classified?

If a download has been classified the BBFC category symbol will be clearly displayed. Depending on the website there may be a unique rollover link from a classification symbol placed next to a ‘pack shot’, with:

- details of the classification – e.g. a category symbol
- Consumer Advice for the particular work
- a clickable link to the BBFC’s website page for that work
- Extended Classification Information.

In addition a digital version of the black card seen at the start of films in the cinema may be displayed before the download plays.

Here is an example of how a classified download might look to you the consumer:   

What does the online certificate or ‘black card’ look like?

The online card is very similar to the card at the start of films in the cinema.

Here is an example for the film A Bug's Life . As you can see the card include the category symbol, the title of the film and the BBFC.online logo.

Do online works have the same category symbols as films, video games or DVDs?

Yes – BBFC.online uses the same ratings criteria and certificates. An online work classified ‘PG’ has been judged to be suitable for a ‘PG’ audience in just the same way a ‘PG’ film would be given a certificate.

Where can I find out more?

More information about BBFC.online is available on the main BBFC website, www.bbfc.co.uk.

I'm a parent and I'm worried about my child downloading non-certificated works - do you have any tips to help me?

You’ll find some top tips and information for ensuring cyber safety at home, and details of how to report anything you find that looks suspicious, at The Industry Trust's website (www.copyrightaware.co.uk). Click here for info.

I am a distributor – how can I find out more about joining the BBFC.online scheme and getting downloads classified?’

More information about BBFC.online is available on the main BBFC website, www.bbfc.co.uk. Click here or alternatively contact BBFC.online on: Tel: 020-7440-1570 or bbfc.online@bbfc.co.uk

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  © The British Board of Film Classification 2007
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