A company which is developing an anti-terrorism extremism and radicalisation keyword library has been forced to apologise after a pressure group spokesperson was labelled an 'extremist' in a presentation.

As well developing classroom monitoring software which works towards keyword detection libraries based on bullying, sexting and suicide, Impero Software UK is developing radicalisation keyword libraries as part of Impero Education Pro.

The software highlights if children are at risk of ‘radicalisation based on their online activity.
Impero Software posted a message on their social media apologising  to Muslim Public Affairs Spokesperson (MPACUK) spokesman, Raza Nadim.

MPACUK say the presentation was leaked to them.

Impero Software UK stated, “We deeply regret any offence caused to Mr Nadim by one of our staff members mentioning him personally during a talk on e-safety.
 
“We have taken steps to ensure we do not make a similar mistake again, and will be contacting Mr Nadim directly to apologise to him. We are constantly updating and modifying our keyword libraries and appreciate the feedback we receive.

“Our radicalisation software remains in pilot phase and will not be released without further significant consultation.”

After the unnecesary attention the company has looked to answer common questions on the programme including ‘what exactly is an extremist individual?’.

It explains,“Any term that might help teachers to identify pupils at risk, in line with the Government’s policy on extremism, are included in our lists and this broad spectrum of keywords had included some individuals that had been recommended to us as having views that could be considered by some to be extremist.

“These real names have now been removed as we continue to consult on the pilot.

 “The inclusion of individuals or organisations that have views that are considered by some to be extremist in nature in no way suggests that these particular individuals or organisations are terrorists, are recruiting for terrorism, or have broken the law.

“The purpose of all keywords in our libraries are intended as merely potential indicators that might indicate a safeguarding concern and support our customers in identifying potential risks within their school at the earliest opportunity.”

 

 


In reference to the question, Which other Muslim activists are labelled as ‘extremists’? it states, “Our primary aim is to help protect children from potential threats, and therefore releasing full keyword lists publicly could have an adverse effect.

“We are eager to work with other well-respected charities and individuals to constantly improve and update our keyword lists throughout the pilot phase and through to release. We appreciate the feedback we have received and have taken the decision to remove all real name searches with immediate effect.
 
The company refuted the claim that the programme was being used mostly within ‘Muslim majority schools’.

The full presentation can be viewed here http://www.scribd.com/doc/283722294/Sally-Ann-Impero-Presentation-slide-14