Ofcom, the UK's media regulator, has issued a stern warning to social media platforms, demanding they implement measures to stop illegal content from spreading virally. The move comes under the Online Safety Act, which gives Ofcom new powers to hold tech companies accountable for harmful material on their services.
New Requirements for Platforms
Under the new directive, social media firms must use automated tools and human moderators to detect and remove illegal content swiftly. This includes terrorist propaganda, child sexual abuse material, and hate speech. Platforms that fail to comply could face fines of up to 10% of their global turnover.
Ofcom's Stance
Ofcom's CEO, Dame Melanie Dawes, stated: "We are putting social media companies on notice. They cannot turn a blind eye to illegal content on their platforms. The Online Safety Act gives us the teeth to enforce this, and we will use them."
Industry Response
Major social media companies, including Meta, TikTok, and X, have expressed their commitment to safety but raised concerns about the technical challenges of real-time monitoring. Some argue that automated systems may inadvertently suppress legitimate speech.
Next Steps
Ofcom will publish detailed guidance later this year, outlining specific expectations. The regulator also plans to conduct audits to ensure compliance. This marks a significant shift in the UK's approach to online regulation, setting a precedent for other countries.
