Overview
- Ofcom launched formal probes into Telegram, Teen Chat and Chat Avenue after evidence of child sexual abuse material and grooming risks on the platforms.
- The regulator said it engaged with all three companies but remains unconvinced their protections for UK children are adequate.
- Suzanne Cater, Ofcom’s enforcement chief, warned the firms to tighten safeguards or face penalties under the Online Safety Act.
- The law lets Ofcom fine companies up to £18 million or 10% of global turnover, though nearly £3 million in fines issued so far remains largely unpaid.
- Weak cross‑border enforcement was highlighted when 4chan rejected a £520,000 fine, even as ministers press major platforms and weigh under‑16 bans, curfews, feed limits and possible coverage for AI chatbots.