New UK regulations to protect minors from harmful online content came into effect today, marking what campaigners have called a “turning point” in efforts to safeguard children in the digital age.
Under the new measures, websites and apps offering potentially harmful material, including pornography and content promoting suicide, self-harm, or eating disorders, must verify users’ ages using methods such as facial image analysis and credit card checks.
Melanie Dawes, Chief Executive of the UK communications regulator Ofcom, announced that around 6,000 pornographic sites have agreed to implement these measures. She emphasized that the UK has achieved a global first, stating: “We’ve done something no other regulator has done… these systems can work.”
The crackdown follows alarming data revealing that approximately 500,000 children aged 8 to 14 were exposed to pornographic content online just last month, according to the UK’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority.
The new rules stem from the Online Safety Act of 2023, which holds tech companies legally accountable for failing to protect children and adults from online harm. Penalties for non-compliance include fines of up to £18 million ($23 million) or 10% of a company’s global revenue, whichever is greater.
Additionally, senior managers may face criminal charges if they do not cooperate with Ofcom investigations.
Platforms like X (formerly Twitter)—currently in a dispute with Irish regulators—are among those under pressure to comply. Ofcom stressed that all platforms must take proactive steps to block access to illegal pornography and content promoting hatred and violence.
The law officially came into effect after a preparatory period was granted to platforms and regulators.
