Ofcom investigates online suicide forum
Ofcom has today launched an investigation into whether the provider of an online suicide forum has failed to comply with its duties under the UK’s Online Safety Act.
This is the first investigation opened into an individual online service provider under these new laws. Specifically, they are investigating whether this provider has failed to:
- put appropriate safety measures in place to protect its UK users from illegal content and activity;
- complete – and keep a record of – a suitable and sufficient illegal harms risk assessment; and
- adequately respond to a statutory information request.
Due to its nature, Ofcom have decided not to name the provider and forum.
Providers of services in scope of the Act had until 16 March 2025 to assess how likely people in the UK are to encounter illegal content on their service, and how their service could be used to commit or facilitate ‘priority’ criminal offences – including encouraging or assisting suicide.
UK law sets out the process Ofcom must follow when investigating an individual provider and deciding whether it has failed to comply with its legal obligations.
Ofcom has said that where they identify compliance failures, they can require platforms to take specific measures to come into compliance. They can also impose fines of up to £18m or 10% of qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is greater.
Further details – https://www.ofcom.org.uk/online-safety/illegal-and-harmful-content/ofcom-investigates-online-suicide-forum/
Blogger at www.systemtek.co.uk