New York City is shutting down its free public Wi-Fi system after residents complained that homeless people had monopolized the system and the service was being used overwhelmingly to watch pornography.
“There were concerns about loitering and extended use of LinkNYC kiosks, so the mayor is addressing these quality-of-life complaints head on,” Natalie Grybauskas, a spokeswoman for Mayor Bill de Blasio, told the Associated Press Wednesday.
The 400 LinkNYC kiosks, which had been installed on sidewalks throughout the city, will have their web-browsing capacities disabled as officials look into whether there is a way to counter the abuse.
A web-filtering system was supposed to block obscene content from being viewed, but many users relied on their cell phones, tablets and computers to view the images and videos. Officials noted they also have had an increased problem with public masturbation.
“The kiosks were never intended for anyone’s extended, personal use and we want to ensure that Links are accessible and a welcome addition to New York City neighborhoods,” LinkNYC said.
The eight-month-old machines will still provide free domestic calls and phone charging.
