What's happened
Ofcom has published its final codes of practice under the UK's Online Safety Act, requiring platforms to assess risks of illegal content and implement safety measures by March 2025. Critics argue the measures are insufficient to protect users from harmful content, particularly regarding suicide and self-harm material.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Dan Milmo in The Guardian, Ofcom's codes of practice represent a significant shift in online safety policy, stating, "No longer will internet terrorists and child abusers be able to behave with impunity." However, critics like Andy Burrows from the Molly Rose Foundation express disappointment, noting, "Ofcom’s task was to move fast and fix things but instead of setting an ambitious precedent these initial measures will mean preventable illegal harm can continue to flourish." This contrast highlights the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of the Online Safety Act and its implementation.
How we got here
The Online Safety Act was enacted to regulate online platforms and protect users from harmful content. Ofcom's codes of practice are the first step in enforcing this legislation, which has faced criticism for being overly lenient and not addressing urgent issues like self-harm content.
Common question
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What are the new UK Online Safety regulations and how do they affect social media?
The UK Online Safety Law, which takes effect in March 2025, introduces new regulations aimed at protecting users from illegal content on social media platforms. As these laws come into play, many are left wondering how they will impact the way social media operates and whether they are sufficient to safeguard vulnerable users, especially children. Below are some common questions regarding these regulations and their implications.
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What are the main criticisms of the UK Online Safety Law?
The UK Online Safety Law, which aims to protect users from illegal content, has sparked significant debate. Critics argue that the measures may not be sufficient to ensure user safety, especially for vulnerable groups like children. This page explores the main criticisms, potential improvements, and the broader implications of the law.
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What Are the Next Steps for Online Safety Regulations?
With the recent announcement from Ofcom regarding new online safety regulations set to take effect by March 2025, many are left wondering what this means for the future of online safety. As technology companies scramble to comply, users also have a role to play in ensuring their own safety online. Here are some common questions about the upcoming changes and their implications.
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What is the UK Online Safety Act and How Does It Affect You?
The UK Online Safety Act aims to enhance user protection against harmful online content. With new regulations set to take effect, many are left wondering how these changes will impact social media platforms and their users. Below, we explore key questions surrounding the Act and its implications.
More on these topics
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The Office of Communications, commonly known as Ofcom, is the government-approved regulatory and competition authority for the broadcasting, telecommunications and postal industries of the United Kingdom.
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Online Safety Act may refer to:
Online Safety Act 2023, United Kingdom legislation
Online Safety Act 2021, Australian legislation
Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), proposed United States federal legislation
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Peter Kyle is a British Labour Party politician serving as the Member of Parliament for Hove since 2015, and the Shadow Minister for Schools since 2021.
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The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children is a charity campaigning and working in child protection in the United Kingdom and the Channel Islands.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.