Meta Challenges Ofcom Over U.K. Online Safety Fees & Fines

Meta has launched legal proceedings against Ofcom over the fee and fines structure linked to the U.K.’s Online Safety Act.

The company argues that Ofcom’s method of calculating charges based on global revenue is not appropriate for services regulated within the UK. Under the law, companies can face fines of up to 10% of worldwide revenue or 18 million pound for violations. Meta reported revenue of USD 201 billion last year. The case seeks a judicial review of Ofcom’s decision in the U.K. High Court. Meta said fees and penalties should be linked to revenue generated from services operating in the country where regulation applies.

Ofcom said its framework follows the law and that it would defend its position in court. A hearing is scheduled for October 13 and 14, 2026. The regulator introduced the fee structure this year to fund enforcement of the Online Safety Act covering online platforms, search services, and pornography websites.