Legislation shaping digital safety in the UK, Australia, and beyond
The government has updated the Online Safety Act to require platforms to remove illegal content quickly during crises, with firms facing fines or service blocks for non-compliance. The move follows unrest linked to a knife attack in Northern Ireland and intensified debates over social media’s role in spreading harmful material.
The prime minister has announced a planned ban on under‑16s using major social media platforms and tougher rules on AI chatbots, gaming contact and addictive features. The measures are due to take effect early next year after a consultation that drew 116,000 responses. Ministers say enforcement will target platforms and may include fines and curfews.
The UK government is pressing ahead with online-safety plans for under-16s, amid US objections. The US embassy in London has urged targeted measures over broad bans, warning of compliance burdens for American firms. Ministers say a ban remains under consideration and that a decision will be announced soon.
Regulator Ofcom has accelerated crisis-response measures to curb illegal content online during UK crises. Platforms must deploy crisis protocols, dedicated law-enforcement channels, and post-crisis reviews as part of updated safety codes, following incidents including 2024 riots and the Southport murders.