Monday, March 17th, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the UK’s journey to a safer internet. From this date, online platforms are required to implement measures to protect users in the UK from illegal content, including child sexual exploitation and abuse. It also marks the launch of Ofcom’s latest enforcement programme to assess industry compliance.
Providers covered by the Online Safety Act had until the 16th of March to conduct a thorough risk assessment of illegal harms – evaluating the likelihood of users encountering illegal content or, in the case of ‘user-to-user’ services, how they might be used to facilitate criminal activity.
Now, with the next phase of legal duties coming into force, platforms must begin implementing appropriate measures to quickly remove illegal content once identified and proactively minimise the risk of ‘priority’ criminal content appearing in the first place.
This is a pivotal moment – one that underscores the shift from policy to action in ensuring that online platforms take responsibility for the safety of their users.
A crucial first step
For the first time, platforms are being held to account under the Act – an important step in tackling harmful online content. While some campaigners feel these initial enforcement measures don’t go far enough, it’s essential to recognise that this is the beginning of a long and evolving process. The goal must be to implement the law effectively, learn from its impact, and refine protections over time. Strong foundations today will lead to even stronger protections in the future.
Ofcom’s role in making online safety a reality
Ofcom has taken a proactive approach in engaging with industry to ensure compliance with the Online Safety Act. Over the past months, they have consulted with platforms, safety tech providers, and other stakeholders to clarify expectations and guide companies in meeting their obligations. Ofcom’s enforcement action demonstrates their readiness to use the tools at their disposal – such as information requests, compliance monitoring, and enforcement notices – to hold platforms accountable.
As Lina Ghazal, Head of Regulatory & Public Affairs at Verifymy, noted in an interview with ITV, the challenges lie in ensuring that Ofcom enforces its powers appropriately, based on how platforms comply with the Act, while also maintaining a level playing field and implementing the right measures at the right time.
By continuing to work with industry while applying regulatory pressure where necessary, Ofcom can drive meaningful improvements in online safety.
Addressing concerns from civil society
Children’s rights groups and online safety advocates have rightly pointed out that today is only the beginning. The scale of online harms remains vast, and while enforcement is now underway, it will need to evolve. Listening to civil society, researchers, and those affected by online harms will be crucial in shaping the next phases of enforcement and ensuring the measures in place are as effective as possible.
The need for ongoing action
Online safety is not a one-time fix. Platforms must continuously improve their safety measures, and regulators must remain engaged with civil society to strengthen protections where needed. Transparency, collaboration, and adaptability will be key in making sure the Online Safety Act delivers meaningful change.
Technology as a key enabler
The good news is that the tools to support compliance exist. Age assurance solutions, content moderation technologies, and proactive safety measures can all help platforms meet their obligations under the Act. As enforcement ramps up, it will be vital for platforms to leverage these technologies to their full potential.
Looking ahead
Today’s enforcement action is an essential first step in a long journey. The Online Safety Act has the potential to bring lasting change, but it will require ongoing effort from platforms, regulators, and civil society. By working together and embracing effective technologies, we can ensure that this new regulatory era delivers on its promise to make the internet safer for all.
At Verifymy, we’re committed to developing solutions that safeguard children and society online. Get in touch to learn how we can support your business and ensure compliance.
