British Online Conversation Forums Shut Down to Avoid New Internet Regulation
British chat forums are closing down to avoid facing regulatory burdens imposed by recent internet policing laws.
The United Kingdom’s Online Safety Act came into effect on March 17, mandating online platforms to implement measures to protect individuals from criminal activity. However, some long-standing forums, ranging from cyclists to divorced father support groups, are finding the regulatory pressure too overwhelming.
‘Small But Risky Services’
Social media platforms are now required to proactively monitor harmful illegal content such as exploitation and harassment.
Ofcom has the authority to enforce penalties on providers that fail to comply with the law.
Online users in the UK may face restrictions accessing foreign-hosted sites.
‘Not Setting Out to Penalize’
Ofcom assures that it aims to penalize only services posing high risks and complying in good faith.
There are concerns that the Act may unintentionally affect how British people navigate the internet.
Lord Moylan cautioned that the UK could become isolated behind an internet firewall similar to China’s.
Digital Service Act
The UK law surpasses the EU’s Digital Service Act by regulating smaller online platforms in addition to larger ones.
Norman Lewis believes similar rules could be included in European legislation, impacting platforms that do not generate significant revenue.
