The Daily PulseBusiness• Updated
Meta Files Court Challenge to Ofcom Over Online Safety Act Enforcement
Reported by Aakash Bora (Staff Writer) · Google News - UK Business ·
Reported by one source so far
Representative image · PexelsUPDATE - follow-up to Meta launches legal challenge against UK media regulator over Online Safety Act - The Guardian: Meta Platforms has lodged a judicial review in the High Court to contest the UK communications regulator Ofcom’s power to enforce the Online Safety Act. The company says the act’s "safe harbour" clause makes it hard for Ofcom to actually collect fines after they are issued. Ofcom has warned that while issuing penalties under the law is straightforward, collecting them proves tougher. The Online Safety Act obliges online services to protect users from illegal or harmful content and can fine firms up to £18 million or 10 % of global turnover for breaches. Meta argues the law’s vague wording could curb free speech and impose unpredictable costs. The court case could shape how the regulator deals with all major tech firms in the UK.
ExplainerWhy this matters
What Happened
Meta Platforms filed a judicial review to challenge Ofcom’s enforcement powers under the Online Safety Act.
Why It Matters
The act forces tech firms to police harmful content, but its safe‑harbour rules can stop regulators from actually collecting penalties, potentially weakening user protection and setting a precedent for future cases.
What Happens Next
The High Court will decide whether the challenge proceeds; a ruling could force changes to the act’s enforcement provisions or confirm Ofcom’s current approach, influencing how all major platforms operate in the UK.
More in Business
Representative image · PexelsBusinessVerified — Confirmed by a second source: Google News - USA BusinessMajor
AMD's Shares Spike 10% to $616, Sending Market Value Over $1 Trillion
Reported by Deepak Mishra (Copy Editor) · Livemint - Markets ·
