UK's Ofcom requires tech firms to create crisis response plans

Investing.com -- Britain's communications regulator Ofcom announced on Tuesday that technology companies operating in the country must establish protocols to address surges in illegal content during public safety crises.

The new requirements follow violence that erupted across Britain in August 2024 after a knife attack in Southport killed three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class. Officials said misleading content that spread rapidly on social media platforms contributed to the unrest.

Social media and online platforms will need to implement crisis-response protocols designed to manage sudden increases in illegal content. The regulator said it accelerated the introduction of these measures due to the speed at which online harms can escalate during emergencies.

Companies must prepare to deploy temporary response teams and increase moderation resources during crises, according to the protocol published by Ofcom. Larger platforms will also need to establish dedicated communication channels for law enforcement agencies during such events.

The regulator said companies should conduct reviews after crises end. Under Britain's Online Safety Act, illegal content is linked to approximately 140 criminal offenses including terrorism, hate crimes, harassment and threats.

Companies must determine their own methods for addressing these risks based on guidance provided by Ofcom. The Online Safety Act represents one of the strictest regulatory frameworks for online content globally.

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