UK Online Safety Act Enforcement Begins with Ofcom's First Codes of Practice

Ofcom has launched 80+ investigations under the Online Safety Act, with the first fines issued including GBP 1 million for age assurance failures. On February 15, 2026, the government announced plans to close the AI chatbot 'loophole' to make chatbot providers subject to illegal content duties. On February 19, 2026, a new amendment requires takedown of non-consensual intimate images within 48 hours. As of February 6, 2026, creating non-consensual intimate images is a criminal offence. The super-complaints regime became active December 31, 2025. Phase 2 children's safety duties went live mid-2025 requiring age verification.

• Ofcom's illegal content codes of practice enforceable from March 2025
• Children's safety duties enforceable from mid-2025
• Age verification or estimation required for services accessible to children
• Proactive technology required for detecting CSAM
• Fines up to 10% of global revenue or GBP 18 million for non-compliance
• Categorized services face enhanced transparency and risk assessment obligations