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UK Government Begins Enforcing its Online Safety Act

By  |  July 29, 2025

This weekend marks a major turning point in how tech companies operating in the UK must protect children online, as the government begins enforcing its Online Safety Act — a sweeping piece of legislation described by many as among the world’s strictest digital safety frameworks, according to the Financial Times.

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    Under the new law, global digital platforms are now required to prevent minors from accessing websites that contain adult content, including pornography, as well as materials that promote or depict self-harm, eating disorders, and suicide. To comply, major tech firms have deployed new artificial intelligence-driven “age assurance” systems, including facial recognition tools and identity verification checks, per the Financial Times.

    Companies such as TikTok, Reddit, and Elon Musk’s X are among those rolling out updated controls for UK-based users. The deadline, set by UK communications regulator Ofcom, means that these platforms must now demonstrate clear measures to block underage access to harmful content. If they fail to comply, they could face fines reaching £18 million or 10% of global annual revenue — whichever is higher.

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    “There has been a rush from a number of services to get stuff in this week, and we need to work out whether that’s effective,” said Oliver Griffiths, Ofcom’s group director for online safety, as cited by the Financial Times.

    The regulation applies broadly, covering not only social media apps but also search engines and gaming platforms. In addition to monitoring explicit content sites, Ofcom has said it will closely scrutinize platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, which claim to prohibit adult content, to ensure they are effectively shielding younger users from harmful material.

    Ofcom has outlined several “highly effective” methods it recommends for verifying user age. These include bank card validation, scanning government-issued IDs, connecting accounts to phone numbers or email addresses, and even facial analysis through photos or videos. Companies will have until the end of September to demonstrate compliance before enforcement begins.

    Source: Financial Times