New rules from the UK’s communications regulator are set to challenge how platforms like Elon Musk’s X handle age verification and explicit content.
On Thursday, Ofcom is expected to unveil the final draft of its child safety codes, aimed at protecting UK users under 18 from harmful content. The regulations will require platforms like X to implement “highly effective” age checks by July to prevent minors from accessing pornography, as well as suicide and self-harm content. X stands out among major social networks for allowing users to post explicit material, while competitors like Meta’s Facebook and Instagram explicitly prohibit pornographic content. Although X restricts explicit content to users who claim to be over 18, there are no additional safeguards to prevent age misrepresentation. Ofcom suggests age verification methods such as checking with banks, mobile network operators, or using photo ID matching and facial recognition technology.
A representative for X did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Musk has previously stated that he believes X should allow all content as long as it is legal. X’s policy blocks users who claim to be under 18 or fail to provide their birthdate from viewing adult content. Additionally, adult users can opt out of seeing explicit posts.
An Ofcom spokesperson emphasized that these new measures will “go beyond current industry standards and lead to safer online experiences for children.” The spokesperson also warned that if platforms fail to make meaningful changes, enforcement action will follow. Musk and the Trump administration have also had conflicts with the European Union’s content moderation rules. The EU is investigating X for violations of the Digital Services Act (DSA), which also mandates platforms to address illegal content and disinformation. Musk has previously stated on X that he plans to fight any DSA fines in court.
Ofcom’s child safety measures are part of the broader Online Safety Act, which targets digital abuse, fraud, and harmful content. The regulations will require platforms—including social networks, search engines, and video games—to assess the risks their services pose to children. Non-compliant platforms could face fines or even be banned in the UK. The Online Safety Act came into effect at the end of 2023, and regulations are being rolled out gradually. Ofcom has already begun enforcing these measures.
“The key takeaway is that platforms will now have to design with safety in mind,” said Lina Ghazal, head of regulatory and public affairs at Verifymy, an identity verification service.
In addition to age verification, a draft of new measures released in May 2024 recommends that platforms implement stronger moderation services to protect children from harmful content. It also proposes giving minors the option to decline invitations to group chats.
Efforts to increase online moderation have faced opposition from politicians and influencers who argue that these moves stifle free speech. Some sites known for hosting extremist content have chosen to leave the UK rather than comply with Ofcom’s regulations. Gab, a site linked to planning the January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol, announced it would shut down in the UK due to “unacceptable legal and compliance risks.” Kiwi Farms, a site known for organizing harassment campaigns, and Bitchute, which hosts controversial videos, have also indicated they will cease operations in the UK.
“Despite our best efforts to navigate these challenges, the uncertainty surrounding Ofcom’s enforcement of the OSA and its wide-ranging implications leaves us with no choice but to stop operating in the UK,” Gab stated.
Musk has criticized UK authorities in the past, particularly after violent protests linked to misinformation. In the wake of those events, which were triggered by a fatal stabbing in Southport, England, UK authorities prosecuted individuals for posting hateful speech. US Vice President JD Vance echoed Musk’s criticism during a February meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The UK’s recent riots have also led Ofcom to consider additional measures, including crisis response protocols for emergency situations.
–With contributions from Kurt Wagner.
