Meta challenges UK regulator over Online Safety Act categorization

The short version

• Meta has filed a legal appeal against UK regulator Ofcom over its decision to place WhatsApp and Instagram into a category with stricter regulatory duties.[The Guardian]
• The additional requirements include enhanced user controls, greater transparency, protections against fraudulent ads, and increased logging of illegal content.[The Guardian]
• This appeal adds to ongoing legal challenges against Ofcom from tech firms, including Meta, TikTok, and X, regarding fee structures and data monitoring disclosures.[The Guardian]

Key facts

• Meta launched an appeal against Ofcom's decision to place WhatsApp and Instagram into a category subject to additional duties under the Online Safety Act.[The Guardian]
• The category duties include greater transparency, expanded user controls, fraudulent ad protections, and increased recording of illegal content.[The Guardian]
• Penalties for breaching the Online Safety Act can reach £18 million or up to 10% of qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is higher.[The Guardian]
• TikTok and X are also taking legal action against Ofcom over the scope of information required to monitor their platforms.[The Guardian]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Meta launches legal challenge against UK media regulator over Online Safety ActThe Guardian - World