The UK communications regulator, Ofcom, has launched its first investigation under the newly enacted Online Safety Act, focusing on a controversial online suicide forum. This investigation is a significant step in enforcing the new digital safety laws, which require tech platforms to take action against illegal content, including material encouraging suicide. Under the new law, platforms face fines of up to £18m or 10% of global revenue for failing to tackle harmful content, with the possibility of Ofcom blocking access to sites that breach the regulations.
Ofcom’s inquiry is examining whether the online suicide forum has violated the Online Safety Act by failing to implement adequate protections for its users, particularly in relation to illegal content. Specifically, the investigation is focusing on whether the site has implemented appropriate measures to shield UK users from harm, whether it has conducted a required assessment of the potential harms the site could cause, and whether it responded adequately to requests for information from Ofcom. These are all key obligations under the new law, which mandates that platforms take action against illegal content and ensure that their moderation systems can identify and address such material.
While Ofcom has not disclosed the name of the forum under investigation, it has been reported that the site has been linked to at least 50 deaths in the UK. The forum, which is easily accessible on the open web, has tens of thousands of members, with discussions reportedly including methods of suicide. This disturbing connection has led to significant concerns regarding the forum’s role in promoting harmful behaviors, especially among vulnerable individuals.
The Online Safety Act, which came into force in 2023, applies to about 100,000 online services, from small websites to major platforms like X, Facebook, and Google. Under the act, these platforms are required to take action against illegal material and ensure that their systems are capable of tackling content related to suicide, self-harm, and other priority offences. The legislation lists 130 priority offences that tech companies must address as a priority. Failure to meet these obligations could lead to serious consequences, including substantial fines, and in extreme cases, platforms may face restrictions on access within the UK.
This investigation is the first of its kind under the Online Safety Act and has drawn significant attention. The Molly Rose Foundation, a charity established following the tragic death of Molly Russell, a British teenager who took her life after viewing harmful content related to suicide, has strongly urged Ofcom to act quickly and decisively. Andy Burrows, the CEO of the Molly Rose Foundation, emphasized the urgency, stating that each day the forum remains online, more vulnerable individuals could be at risk.
This investigation underscores the UK’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from harmful online content and holds tech platforms accountable for their role in safeguarding users. As part of the investigation, Ofcom will continue to monitor the forum’s compliance with the law and will take appropriate enforcement actions if necessary.