Summary
The Liberal Democrats are calling for YouTube ads to be checked like traditional TV ads to protect users from scams and harmful content. They want media regulator Ofcom to issue fines and oversee ad screening. YouTube is now the UK's second-most-watched media service after the BBC.
Key Facts
- The Liberal Democrats propose that ads on YouTube be vetted like TV ads to prevent scams and harmful content.
- Ofcom, the media regulator, is urged to issue fines and screen YouTube ads.
- YouTube is the UK's second-most-watched media service, after the BBC.
- At present, TV and radio ads are pre-approved by industry bodies, unlike YouTube ads.
- Max Wilkinson MP says current ad regulations for digital platforms are too lenient compared to TV.
- The ASA handles complaints about scam ads but tackling them falls under Ofcom's responsibilities.
- The ASA reported over 1,600 potential online scam ads in 2024, with many involving deepfake videos.
- Google removed over 411 million UK ads in 2024 and suspended over 1 million ad accounts.
