Online Safety Act
UK legislation (2023) that places legal duties on tech companies to protect users, especially children, from harmful content online. Ofcom is the regulator.
In plain English
UK legislation (2023) that places legal duties on tech companies to protect users, especially children, from harmful content online. Ofcom is the regulator.
Why it matters
The Act requires platforms to assess risks to children, act on illegal content, and use age assurance for adult content. It changes what families can expect from major services and gives Ofcom power to fine companies up to ten per cent of global turnover.
Sources
- Online Safety Act 2023— GOV.UK
- Ofcom: protecting people online— Ofcom
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17