UK’s Internet Safety Regulations: Tech Giants Face Significant Fines
In just two months, the UK’s Online Safety Act will come into force, bringing with it sweeping new rules that will force large tech firms to do more to combat illegal content online. The British media regulator, Ofcom, has been working tirelessly to ensure that tech giants comply with the new regulations, and has already seen some positive changes from major platforms.
The Stakes Are High
Ofcom has warned that tech companies face significant fines if they fail to comply with the new rules. The regulator will have the power to levy fines of up to 10% of companies’ global annual revenues for breaches. In cases where repeat breaches occur, individual senior managers could even face jail time. In the most serious cases, Ofcom may seek a court order to block access to a service in the UK or limit the firm’s access to payment providers or advertisers.
Milestones Ahead
From December, Ofcom will publish its first edition illegal harms codes and guidance. Tech platforms will then have three months to complete an illegal harms risk assessment. In January, Ofcom will finalize children’s access assessment guidance and age assurance guidance for porn sites. Then, in Spring, it will consult on additional measures for “second edition” codes and guidance.
Positive Steps So Far
Ofcom has already secured better protections from several online platform companies. For example, OnlyFans has introduced age verification, BitChute has improved its content moderation, and Twitch has introduced measures to prevent children from seeing harmful videos. Meta and Snapchat have also implemented changes to protect children from grooming.
A Pivotal Year Ahead
“The time for talk is over. From December, tech firms will be legally required to start taking action, meaning 2025 will be a pivotal year in creating a safer life online,” said Melanie Dawes, Ofcom’s chief executive. “We’ve already engaged constructively with some platforms and seen positive changes ahead of time, but our expectations are going to be high, and we’ll be coming down hard on those who fall short.”
The Road to Compliance
As the Online Safety Act comes into force, tech companies will need to take significant steps to ensure they are compliant with the new regulations. With fines and even jail time on the line, it’s clear that the stakes are high. But with Ofcom’s guidance and oversight, the UK is one step closer to creating a safer online environment for all.
Leave a Reply