United Kingdom: Issued Ofcom update on the implementation of the UK Online Safety Act

On 17 October 2024, the UK Office of Communications (Ofcom) issued an update on the implementation of the UK’s Online Safety Act, which will take effect in December 2024. The Act introduces new legal obligations for technology companies to enhance user protection against illegal and harmful content. The Act introduces specific obligations, including transparency reports, user control tools, and the consistent application of terms of service. The technology firms to which the Act is applicable, such as social media platforms and video-sharing services, must conduct risk assessments and implement safety measures. Ofcom noted the changes from platforms including Meta, Snapchat, and OnlyFans, but emphasised the need for further actions before the Act fully comes into force. It was also highlighted that Ofcom has the power to impose fines and, in severe cases, seek court orders to block services or restrict their access to payment providers and advertisers. The expected timeline outlines that Ofcom will publish the illegal harms codes and guidance in December 2024. Platforms will then have until March 2025 to complete their risk assessments and implement safety measures related to illegal harms. By July 2025, platforms must complete their children’s risk assessments and ensure the appropriate safety measures are in place. Full enforcement of the Online Safety Act is scheduled to begin in April 2025.