Meta has launched a new legal challenge against UK media regulator Ofcom, appealing against the classification of WhatsApp and Instagram in a category that imposes additional duties under the Online Safety Act.
Key facts
- Meta has launched a fresh legal challenge against UK media regulator Ofcom.
- Lawyers for Meta served notice during the week appealing the classification of WhatsApp and Instagram.
- The category in question subjects the platforms to additional duties under the Online Safety Act.
- The action is one of several by social media companies accused of using the courts to slow implementation of the Act.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has launched a fresh legal challenge against Britain’s media regulator, Ofcom, according to the Guardian. The action is the latest in a series of court challenges brought by social media companies over the implementation of the UK’s Online Safety Act.
Lawyers for Meta served notice during the week in an appeal against placing WhatsApp and Instagram, which are also owned by Meta, in a category that subjects them to additional duties, the Guardian reported.
The challenge comes as social media companies are being accused of using the courts to slow down implementation of the Online Safety Act, according to the same report.
The Online Safety Act places obligations on online platforms, with certain services facing additional duties depending on how they are categorised by the regulator. Meta’s appeal centres on that categorisation of its messaging and photo-sharing platforms.
The Guardian described Meta’s move as one of a “slew of actions” by social media firms, framing the legal challenge within a wider pattern of industry pushback against the regulatory regime.
Why it matters
The Online Safety Act is a landmark piece of UK legislation intended to make online platforms safer, and legal challenges from major companies like Meta could affect how quickly and fully its rules take hold. The outcome may shape the balance of power between regulators and global tech firms over how services such as WhatsApp and Instagram are governed.
Frequently asked questions
What is Meta challenging?
According to the Guardian, Meta is appealing against Ofcom placing WhatsApp and Instagram in a category that subjects them to additional duties under the Online Safety Act.
Which platforms are involved?
The appeal concerns WhatsApp and Instagram, both owned by Meta, the parent company of Facebook.
Why are social media companies going to court?
The Guardian reports that social media companies are accused of using the courts to slow down implementation of the Online Safety Act, with Meta's challenge being the latest of several such actions.