Proactive Investors - Ofcom has issued a warning to social media companies that enforcement of online safety regulations will be significantly strengthened by 2025.
The communications regulator noted that it expects companies to increase their efforts in dealing with illegal and harmful content to ensure better protections for children and vulnerable users online.
It comes as the Online Safety Act, passed in October 2023, enters the implementation phase.
“The time for talk is over,” warned Ofcom’s chief executive Melanie Dawes. “From December, tech firms will be legally required to start taking action, meaning 2025 will be a pivotal year in creating a safer life online.
“We’ve already engaged constructively with some platforms and seen positive changes ahead of time, but our expectations are going to be high, and we’ll be coming down hard on those who fall short.”
In December, Ofcom will publish its first edition of illegal harms codes and guidance, giving platforms three months to complete their risk assessments.
By January 2025, Ofcom will finalise children's access guidance and set rules for pornography providers on age assurance, with platforms required to assess child access within three months.
In February, the regulator will consult on protecting women and girls online. Platforms must complete their illegal harms risk assessments by March and their children's access assessments by April.
Ofcom will have the power to fine social media companies up to 10% of their global turnover if found in breach of the law.
Critics of the Bill, including Tory leadership candidate Kemi Badenoch, have cited concerns over the potential threat to free speech when it comes into force.
Badenoch has called for a delay in implementing the Bill.
"If I'm elected prime minister I will ensure the Bill doesn't overreach. We should not be legislating for hurt feelings,” she said in July.