Ofcom, the United Kingdom’s communications watchdog, has launched an investigation into Meta regarding potential violations of the Online Safety Act connected to the company’s Instagram Instants feature. The probe centers on whether the social media giant conducted adequate risk assessments before introducing the Snapchat-style product, which enables users to send images that disappear after being viewed.
Under UK digital safety regulations, social media platforms are obligated to perform comprehensive risk assessments prior to implementing significant modifications to their services. The investigation specifically examines whether Meta properly evaluated risks related to illegal content distribution and accessibility to minors through Instagram Instants. According to Ofcom’s enforcement director, such assessments are fundamental to ensuring online platform safety.
Meta stated that it had completed a risk analysis of Instagram Instants and engaged in multiple discussions with Ofcom before launching the feature. The company emphasized that the product incorporates various protective measures, including blocking the ability to forward images and implementing all safeguards associated with its teen account settings, which serve as the default configuration for users under 18 years old on Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger.
Violations of the Online Safety Act can result in consequences ranging from formal warnings to financial penalties of up to 10 percent of a company’s global revenue. The Molly Rose Foundation, an organization founded by the family of a teenager who died by suicide after exposure to harmful content on Instagram, expressed support for the investigation, stating that Meta should be held accountable for compliance failures.
This inquiry represents one of multiple ongoing regulatory actions involving Meta in the UK. Ofcom is simultaneously investigating the company over alleged failures to respond to information requests concerning WhatsApp. Additionally, Meta is engaged in separate court challenges against Ofcom, disputing fee structures and regulatory categorization, while also joining other major technology companies in challenging information disclosure requirements under the online safety regime.
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