Summary
The UK communications regulator, Ofcom, is investigating the message board 4chan and porn site First Time Videos for not following online safety rules. Ofcom wants to ensure that these platforms protect users from illegal content and check the age of users properly. Other file-sharing services are also being investigated for possible child sexual abuse content.
Key Facts
- Ofcom is looking into 4chan for not providing information about how it keeps users safe from illegal content.
- The investigation is part of the rules in the Online Safety Act, which require online services to protect UK users.
- 4chan has not responded to Ofcom’s request for a risk assessment since April.
- Ofcom can fine companies up to 10% of their global revenue or £18 million, whichever is more.
- Seven file-sharing services are also under investigation for potential child sexual abuse content.
- These services are Im.ge, Krakenfiles, Nippybox, Nippydrive, Nippyshare, Nippyspace, and Yolobit.
- The porn site First Time Videos is being checked to see if it has proper age verification measures for users.
- Platforms hosting age-restricted content must have strong age checks by July.
