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LONDON – British media regulator Ofcom warned on Thursday that technology giants could face “significant” fines if they do not comply with British cybersecurity regulations.
The Online Safety Act includes sweeping new rules that will force big tech companies to do more to combat illegal content online. Over the past six months, Ofcom has consulted on codes and guidance on unlawful hurt, age verification in pornography and child safety.
The regulator said it has submitted recommendations to the government on which services should be subject to additional tariffs based on certain thresholds. Ofcom has also discussed with technology companies, including some of the biggest platforms, what it needs to do next year.
Ofcom said it had gained better protection from a number of online platform companies. These include adult content-focused subscription platform OnlyFans, which has introduced age verification; free voice-video sharing site BitChute has improved content moderation; and live-streaming service Twitch has introduced measures to prevent children from viewing harmful videos.
Yuan Ofcom said Snapchat and Snapchat have also implemented changes to protect children from grooming. The regulator added that while these are positive steps, more changes will be needed after the Cybersecurity Law comes into effect.
From December this year, Ofcom will publish the first version of its unlawful harm regulations and guidance. Technology platforms will have three months to complete an illegal harm risk assessment.
With the regulation being introduced in 2025, regulators have further milestones to cross. Then in the spring it will consult on additional measures for a “second edition” of the code and guidance.
Ofcom has warned that tech companies will face hefty fines if they fail to comply once the rules come into effect. It will have the power to impose fines of up to 10% of global annual revenue on non-compliance companies.
If violations are repeated, individual executives may even face jail time. Ofcom said that in the most serious cases, the regulator could seek a court order to block the provision of services in the UK or restrict the company’s access to payment providers or advertisers.
Ofcom chief executive Melanie Dawes said in a statement: “The time for discussion is over. From December, technology companies will be legally required to start taking action, meaning 2025 will be a crucial year in creating a safer online life.
Dawes added: “We have engaged constructively with some platforms and are seeing positive changes ahead of time, but our expectations will be high and we will crack down on those that fall short.”
Ofcom’s latest announcement comes after UK technology minister Peter Kyle submitted a letter to the regulator on Wednesday asking for an update on its response to anti-immigration protests and riots across the country earlier this year.
“I would like you to provide an update on Ofcom’s assessment of how illegal content, particularly disinformation, spread during the riots; and whether Ofcom is considering any targeted measures in response to the next illegal breach of the code of conduct,” Kyle said in the letter. Posted on social media platform.
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