United Kingdom: Adopted Online Fraud Charter 2023

On 30 November 2023, the United Kingdom Government (UK), in partnership with technology companies, adopted the Online Fraud Charter 2023. The signatory companies are pledging to execute specific measures within 6 months to prevent online fraud. The companies include Amazon, eBay, Facebook, Google, Instagram, LinkedIn, Match Group, Microsoft, Snapchat, TikTok, X formerly Twitter and YouTube. The Charter aims to complement the Online Safety Act and is divided into 9 different themes. In particular, rules for blocking, reporting, direct action against fraudulent content, and measures against fraudulent advertisements are specified. Additionally, the connection to law enforcement will be strengthened by ensuring cooperation, intelligence sharing, and transparency. Finally, established and emerging fraud methods and typologies will be analysed through horizon scanning. A review is planned six months after the Charter's publication and following the consultation period for Ofcom's Codes of Practice to avoid the Charter's commitments being redundant or conflicting with regulatory requirements.