Britain’s media regulator, Ofcom, on Tuesday launched nine investigations into the internet message board 4chan as well as several file-sharing services over possible breaches of online safety laws.
Britain’s Online Safety Act, passed in 2023, sets tougher standards for platforms to tackle criminal activity, with an emphasis on child protection and illegal content.
The regulator said it had received complaints about potential illegal content on 4chan and, separately, possible sharing of child sexual abuse material on seven file-sharing services.
Ofcom is investigating whether 4chan and the file-sharing services failed to put in place appropriate safety measures to protect users from illegal content and to respond to a statutory information request. It also wants to assess whether they kept proper risk assessment records. 4chan could not be reached for comment.
The regulator can require platforms to take specific measures to ensure compliance with the rules, or fine them up to £18m ($24.3m) or 10% of qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is greater.
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Ofcom’s announcement also said it was investigating whether First Time Videos, which provides pornographic services, has effective enough age assurance in place to protect children.