UK regulator warns of heavy fines for tech giants ahead of New Online Safety Rules

Technology giants could face significant penalties if they fail to comply with new internet safety regulations set to take effect in the UK. The British media regulator Ofcom issued a stern warning on Thursday, stating that tech companies will be held accountable for illegal content on their platforms under the upcoming Online Safety Act.

The legislation, which comes into force in December, introduces sweeping new rules that require large technology firms to take greater responsibility in combating illegal online content, including protecting children and ensuring proper age verification for pornography. Ofcom has been consulting with tech companies over the past six months to establish its codes and guidance on illegal harms, children's safety, and age verification requirements.

Ofcom has already seen positive actions from several major platforms. For instance, subscription-based platform OnlyFans introduced age verification measures, video-sharing site BitChute improved its content moderation, and live-streaming service Twitch implemented measures to protect children from harmful videos. Meta and Snapchat have also enhanced their child protection policies to prevent grooming, but the regulator emphasized that more steps are needed once the new rules come into effect.

Starting this December, Ofcom will publish the first edition of its illegal harms codes and guidance, giving platforms three months to conduct risk assessments on illegal content. Additional milestones will be reached throughout 2025, including the finalization of children’s access assessments and guidance for age assurance on pornography sites by January. In Spring, the watchdog will consult on further measures and issue "second edition" codes.

Ofcom warned that non-compliant companies could face hefty penalties, including fines of up to 10% of their global annual revenue. In cases of severe or repeated violations, senior managers could face jail time, and the regulator could seek court orders to block access to services or restrict the company’s access to payment providers or advertisers.

"The time for talk is over," Ofcom's Chief Executive Melanie Dawes said in a statement. "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’ll be coming down hard on those who fall short."