UK Enforces Online Safety Act with Tough Rules for Social Media Platforms

Social media companies face fines and stricter regulations to combat illegal content, including child sexual abuse and terrorism, under new UK laws.

The Online Safety Act, effective today, mandates tech companies to prevent and remove illegal content such as child sexual abuse, terrorism, and fraud across their platforms.
Ofcom, the UK regulator, will enforce compliance with the law, with companies facing fines up to £18 million or 10% of global revenue for violations.
Critics argue Ofcom's measures are insufficient, citing gaps in protections for children and delays in addressing emerging threats like AI-generated abuse content.
Safety campaigners and victims' advocates call for stronger enforcement and immediate government action to close loopholes in the legislation.
The act has faced international criticism, including from US officials, over concerns about its potential impact on free speech and trade relations.