The Society of Editors today has launched a guide for journalists on moderating online comments.

The guide, written by journalism professor Peter Cole, aims to aid understanding of the potential pitfalls of online comments – including hate crime – and suggests ways moderators of media sites can address it.

SoE executive director Bob Satchwell said: “As an organisation that fights for media freedom, it is not for the Society of Editors to lay down rules and regulations but we are happy to shine a light on good practice born of experience behind some of the most followed websites.

“We hope the guide will make an important contribution to understanding how vulnerable people can be protected without interfering with freedom of expression.”

Printed copies are available by emailing: [email protected]