Meta, TikTok and X lose legal challenge against UK online safety regulator

Meta, TikTok and X have lost a legal challenge against the UK’s online safety regulator, Ofcom, over demands for detailed information about their content moderation practices, according to a High Court ruling.

The companies had argued that Ofcom’s information requests imposed excessive regulatory burdens and exceeded its legal powers. However, the court rejected their arguments, finding that the requests were sufficiently connected to the regulator’s objective of assessing the effectiveness of online safety measures.

Ofcom issued the notices in February, seeking six categories of information, including the volume of content and accounts moderated, response times, user exposure to harmful content and the number and outcomes of user reports and appeals. The data covers the period from January 1, 2024, enabling the regulator to assess changes following the implementation of the UK’s Online Safety Act.

The companies raised concerns over the financial and operational burden of complying with the requests. X argued that the process could cost millions of pounds and require several months of specialist work. However, the judges said the companies had not provided sufficient evidence to substantiate the specific additional costs and staffing requirements.

Ofcom welcomed the ruling, stating that gathering information from companies is fundamental to its regulatory responsibilities.

Meta said it was disappointed with the decision, maintaining that the scale of information requested went beyond what was necessary and proportionate. TikTok said it was considering the judgment, while X did not immediately comment.

The ruling marks an early legal test of the UK’s Online Safety Act, which grants Ofcom powers to require technology companies to address harmful and illegal content. It also comes amid wider disagreements between the UK and the US over digital regulation and freedom of expression.