Meta Platforms, TikTok and X are challenging the scope of information requests issued by British regulator Ofcom under the country’s new online safety framework.
The dispute marks one of the first challenges to the 2023 Online Safety Act, which imposes stricter requirements on major online platforms, including TikTok, X and Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, to protect children from harmful and illegal content.
The three technology companies argue that the information notices impose excessive regulatory requirements.
In a witness statement filed with the court, X described Ofcom’s request as “the most burdensome information request X has received from any regulator in any jurisdiction”.
Meta, in court documents, said Ofcom had requested “wide-ranging and granular information” about seven of its services without clearly defining the regulatory purpose of the request.
TikTok, meanwhile, argued that Ofcom had bypassed an alternative monitoring system that includes specific protective measures.
Ofcom issued the information notices in February as it continued implementing the online safety regime. The requests sought detailed content moderation data from the technology companies, including figures on posts removed, content subject to restricted visibility and users’ exposure to harmful material.
The Online Safety Act gives Ofcom enforcement powers that include fines of up to 10% of a company’s global revenue for serious violations.
The ongoing dispute therefore centres on the extent of information Ofcom can require technology companies to provide as the regulator implements the new framework.
