The Online Safety Act establishes a comprehensive framework for regulating digital platforms, particularly social media companies and content-sharing services. Key objectives include:
• Protecting Children: Platforms must implement age verification measures to prevent underage users from accessing harmful content.
• Removing Illegal Content: Providers are required to promptly remove illegal material, such as content promoting terrorism or child exploitation.
• Combatting "Lawful but Harmful" Content: Platforms must address harmful material that may not breach the law but still poses risks, such as content promoting self-harm or cyberbullying.
The legislation empowers the UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, to oversee compliance, impose fines, and even block non-compliant platforms.