UK "Big Tech SNS, Willing to Block if Child Protection Fails"

The UK has warned big tech platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to strengthen age verification and control algorithms to protect child users. Otherwise, it is prepared to block the use of minors altogether.

According to the BBC on the 8th (local time), Ofcom, the UK communications and media regulator, announced child safety administrative guidelines for the enforcement of the Online Safety Act, which was enacted last October.

The main point is that each platform must strengthen user age verification to prevent children from viewing harmful content related to suicide, self-harm, pornography, eating disorders, and more. Platforms must enhance user identification and restructure algorithms to block or reduce harmful content in personalized feeds for child users. Ofcom stated that if these rules are violated, the company name will be disclosed and stronger measures such as blocking minor users entirely are also possible.

Melanie Dawes, CEO of Ofcom, said, "Tech companies must control aggressive algorithms that push harmful content into children's personalized feeds and introduce age checks to provide age-appropriate experiences." She added, "This measure goes far beyond current industry standards, and once the law is fully enforced, we will not hesitate to exercise the authority to hold platforms accountable."

Ofcom plans to finalize these guidelines within a year after collecting feedback until July 17. The Online Safety Act also grants Ofcom powers to impose fines and pursue criminal penalties.

This measure comes amid growing criticism that exposure to harmful content through social media is increasing among youth and that dangerous content adversely affects their physical and mental health. In particular, in the UK, awareness was raised after a teenager died in 2022 while participating in the so-called 'fainting game challenge.'

However, concerns have also been raised. The BBC pointed out that even if the law is enacted, issues remain regarding how platforms verify user age, and it is difficult to guarantee that both users and companies comply with the law. Additionally, there are claims that the new guidelines may infringe on users' privacy or restrict freedom of expression.