UK watchdog to hold social media companies to account over harmful content

Social media companies like Facebook and Instagram will be subject to more scrutiny in the UK over harmful content appearing on their platforms, with new powers awarded to a government-appointed regulator.

The UK government has announced plans to appoint media watchdog Ofcom as an online regulator, giving it powers to act swiftly on harmful content on social media.

Ofcom, which currently watches TV and radio organisations like the BBC, will be able to hold tech and social media companies to account if they do not adequately protect users from harmful content, including that associated with terrorism and child abuse. Read more...