Meta has initiated a legal challenge against the UK's media regulator Ofcom regarding the categorization of its platforms WhatsApp and Instagram under the Online Safety Act.

UK · 2026-09-20

1. Step 1 · The triggerOfcom categorizes WhatsApp and Instagram as in-scope under the Online Safety Act, imposing strict compliance duties on Meta.
2. Step 2 · Knock-onMeta's legal challenge creates regulatory uncertainty and delays, raising compliance and legal costs and potentially altering platform features or access for UK users.
3. Step 3 · Reaches youUK SMEs relying on these platforms face uncertainty in digital engagement, with possible disruption to customer communication or marketing if platform features change.

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Source: The Guardian Business

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