United Kingdom: Office of Communications announced investigation into Novi over alleged failure to implement effective age assurance measures and conduct children’s access assessments

On 15 January 2026, the Office of Communications (Ofcom) opened an investigation into Novi regarding its generative artificial intelligence (AI) service, joi, for potential breaches of the Online Safety Act. The investigation examines whether the provider failed to comply with Section 12 of the Act, which requires the implementation of highly effective age assurance measures to prevent children from encountering pornographic content on services allowing user-generated material. Furthermore, the investigation is assessing potential non-compliance with Section 36 of the Act, which mandates that providers perform and maintain a written children’s access assessment. It was noted that the investigation may result in enforcement actions if the regulator identifies specific breaches of the statutory obligations.