Meta challenges UK regulator over online safety demands

Meta, TikTok, and X are challenging British media regulator Ofcom over the volume of information it demands under the country's online safety regime, according to a Reuters report on October 5, 2026. The legal challenge is among the first regarding the Online Safety Act of 2023, which sets stricter standards for platforms to protect children from harmful and illegal content.

Ofcom has been rolling out the rules gradually. Serious violations carry potential fines of up to 10% of a company's global turnover. In February, the regulator issued notices demanding detailed content moderation metrics, including figures on removed posts, restricted visibility, and the number of users exposed to harmful material.

Meta stated in court filings that Ofcom asked for comprehensive and detailed information across seven of its services without a clearly defined regulatory purpose. TikTok argued that Ofcom bypassed an alternative monitoring regime, while X called the demand the most burdensome it has ever received from any regulator. In response, an Ofcom spokesperson said Parliament tasked the body with regulating a sector that operated without accountability for over 20 years, noting that required scopes were narrowed before rollout.

Hearings conclude on Wednesday. Meta is also expected to file a separate lawsuit next week to challenge how regulatory fees and penalties are calculated.