Social media faces big changes under new Ofcom rules

The Online Safety Act, which was enacted in October 2023, is set to bring significant changes to social media platforms in an effort to enhance the safety of children online. Ofcom, the communications regulator, has issued a warning to social media companies such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, stating that they will face penalties if they fail to protect children on their platforms. Ofcom's chief executive, Dame Melanie Dawes, emphasized in an interview with the BBC that it is the responsibility of these companies, rather than parents or children, to ensure a safe online environment. The companies will have a three-month period to conduct risk assessments and implement necessary changes to safeguard their users once the guidance is finalized. Dame Melanie's remarks coincided with Ofcom's ongoing efforts to develop codes of practice since the Online Safety Act was passed. The Act mandates that social media firms take measures to shield children from harmful content, including material related to self-harm, pornography, and violence. However, some individuals believe that the pace of change is insufficient. Ellen Roome, a concerned mother, shared her worries about her 14-year-old son, Jools, who she believes may have participated in a dangerous online challenge. Ellen is now a member of the Bereaved Parents for Online Safety group, and she expressed her frustration on the Today program, stating, 'I don’t think anything has changed. They [the technology companies] are all waiting to see what Ofcom is going to do to enforce it, and Ofcom doesn’t seem to be quick enough to enforce those new powers to stop social media from harming children. ' She and other parents are left wondering when enforcement will begin, as they feel that not enough is being done to protect children from harmful content. Platforms are expected to remove illegal content that promotes or facilitates suicide, self-harm, and child sexual abuse. Yet, Ellen pointed out that harmful content is still easily accessible online. Dame Melanie stressed the need for technology companies to be 'honest and transparent' about the content their services expose users to. She warned that if Ofcom determines that companies have not fulfilled their responsibilities, they will take enforcement action against them. Ofcom has been in close communication with social media services, and Dame Melanie assured that when the new legal protections come into effect, the regulator will be 'ready to go. ' She noted that some companies are preparing for these changes, and significant adjustments are anticipated. One potential change could allow users to exit group chats without others being aware of their departure. The Online Safety Act aims to compel tech firms to take greater responsibility for the content shared on their platforms. Ofcom has the authority to impose fines on companies that violate the rules, with penalties reaching up to 10% of their global revenue. Additionally, Ofcom can block access to these companies in the UK. Dr. Lucie Moore, the chief executive of Cease, an organization dedicated to ending sexual exploitation, welcomed Dame Melanie's comments about placing the responsibility of child safety on tech companies. However, she expressed disappointment regarding the lack of clear definitions in Ofcom's plans to regulate online harms, particularly concerning age verification methods for pornographic material. This is a crucial issue that requires further clarification and action.