Growing Concerns over Expanded Powers Given to Ofcom for Regulating Online Harm

Fears persist that the UK could become less free due to new powers granted to the regulator Ofcom through the Online Safety Bill. The law, which was recently passed, gives Ofcom the authority to protect online users from harm and imposes fines and sanctions on social media platforms that do not comply with the regulations. Critics argue that this grants unprecedented power to limit speech, with limited oversight. There are concerns over privacy and security, as Ofcom will have remote access to companies’ systems. Additionally, there is a risk that non-UK platforms may choose to leave the country to avoid compliance costs. Under the law, Ofcom must also establish an advisory committee on disinformation and misinformation. Critics argue that the bill incentivizes companies to remove more content, potentially leading to censorship. The law also addresses the prevention of children viewing harmful content. Ofcom has made tech industry appointments and has worked with NewsGuard Technologies to tackle disinformation. Critics view the law as a censor’s charter that gives too much power to unelected Big Tech companies.



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