The UK communications regulator Ofcom has opened an investigation into Meta regarding the rollout of Instagram Instants, a messaging feature that allows images to disappear after being viewed. The inquiry centers on whether the tech company complied with the Online Safety Act by conducting sufficient risk assessments before introducing the new functionality to its platform.
Under UK digital safety regulations, social media companies must perform comprehensive risk evaluations before making substantial modifications to their services. The Online Safety Act provides enforcement powers ranging from formal warnings to financial penalties representing up to 10% of a company’s global revenue. George Lusty, Ofcom’s enforcement director, emphasized that safety assessments are fundamental to protecting users, comparing the requirement to vehicle testing standards.
Meta stated it had performed a risk analysis of the Instants feature and engaged with Ofcom prior to its introduction. The company highlighted that the feature incorporates multiple safety protections, including restrictions on image forwarding, and applies the safeguards embedded in its teen account settings, which serve as the default configuration for users under 18 across Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger. A Meta representative indicated the company would fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
The Molly Rose Foundation, an organization founded by the family of a teenager who died following exposure to harmful content on Instagram, stated that holding Meta accountable under the Online Safety Act was essential. This investigation comes as Ofcom is also examining whether Meta failed to provide required information regarding its WhatsApp platform. Additionally, Meta is engaged in multiple court actions challenging Ofcom’s authority under the digital safety framework, disputing how the regulator charges fees and objecting to the categorical placement of its platforms. Meta has joined TikTok and X in legal proceedings questioning the scope of information Ofcom is requesting under the online safety regime.
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