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Meta has launched a new legal challenge against the UK media regulator Ofcom over the implementation of the Online Safety Act, according to The Guardian.
Lawyers for the technology company have appealed against Ofcom’s decision to place “WhatsApp” and “Instagram” in a category subject to additional requirements. These include greater transparency, enhanced user controls and measures to address fraudulent advertising and illegal content.
Meta disputes Ofcom’s interpretation
Meta said its legal actions were not challenges to the Online Safety Act itself, but to the way Ofcom had interpreted the legislation.
The company described such cases as a normal part of establishing a new regulatory framework, saying they would help ensure that the law was applied “proportionately, accurately and consistently.”
The latest case is part of a series of legal actions brought by technology companies against Ofcom. In May, Meta challenged the regulator’s methodology for calculating fees, arguing that charges should not be based on a company’s global revenue.
Companies face large potential fines
Under the Online Safety Act, companies can be fined up to 10% of qualifying worldwide revenue or £18 million ($24 million), whichever is higher.
“TikTok” and “X” are also taking legal action over the amount of information they are required to provide to Ofcom.
Oliver Griffiths, Ofcom’s group director for online safety, told a House of Lords committee that the regulator was “operating in a highly litigious environment.”
He said Ofcom was working to implement the legislation effectively but warned that it could face significant legal consequences if it took “unnecessary risks.”
The UK government said it would continue introducing legislation to regulate the internet as technology develops.
