A ruling by London's High Court has sided with Ofcom in a dispute with Meta, TikTok and X over the regulator's authority to demand data from social media companies, Reuters reported on Friday. The court rejected the platforms' challenge, though the full reasoning behind the decision remained unavailable when the judgment was initially reported.
At the heart of the disagreement were information requests that Ofcom issued to the three platforms in February. The regulator sought comprehensive data detailing their approaches to harmful content, including metrics on post removals, content restrictions and user exposure to such material.
The platforms contended that fulfilling these requests would impose exceptional operational strain, according to Reuters. This case represents one of the earliest significant legal tests of the Online Safety Act, legislation that took effect in 2023.
Under the Online Safety Act, Ofcom possesses enforcement authority to implement standards requiring platforms to shield users—especially minors—from illegal and harmful material. Platforms found guilty of serious violations face potential fines reaching 10% of their worldwide revenue.
During proceedings held earlier this month, each of the three companies presented distinct arguments against the regulator's demands. X characterized the notice as the most extensive request it had ever encountered from any regulator.
Meta raised concerns that Ofcom was seeking extensive information spanning seven of its services while providing insufficient clarity about its intended use. TikTok contended that the regulator had circumvented an established evaluation framework designed with protective measures.
Ofcom stated that obtaining this information was essential for evaluating whether the new regulatory framework was functioning effectively. The regulator also noted that it had reduced the breadth of its requests prior to their implementation.
Neither the three companies nor Ofcom provided immediate statements in response to Reuters' inquiries for comment.
This judgment forms part of an ongoing series of conflicts between Meta and the regulator. Meta has separately contested Ofcom's methodology for determining fees under the Online Safety Act. Additionally, Ofcom is conducting an investigation into Instagram Instants.
Source: The Next Web
