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Meta brings High Court challenge over Ofcom fees
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Meta, parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is challenging the UK media regulator Ofcom in the High Court over fees and potential fines introduced under the Online Safety Act.
Key facts
- Under the Online Safety Act, companies found to have breached safety rules can face fines of up to 10% of qualifying worldwide revenue or £18m, whichever is greater
- Under regulations introduced in September, the fees are based on a company's qualifying worldwide revenue and apply to firms earning more than £250m a year
- At a preliminary hearing in London on Thursday, the High Court heard Fortnite-maker Epic Games and the trade body the Computer and Communications Industry Association are expected to seek permission
- Meta, parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is challenging the UK media regulator Ofcom in the High Court over fees and potential fines introduced under the Online Safety Act
Summary
The law, which came into force in July 2025, introduced protections against harmful online content, with Ofcom's operating costs for carrying out its online safety work funded by tech firms. Under regulations introduced in September, the fees are based on a company's qualifying worldwide revenue and apply to firms earning more than £250m a year. Meta said Ofcom's methods for calculating fees and penalties were "disproportionate", while Ofcom said it would "robustly defend" its position. Meta is challenging rules covering search engines and platforms where users can share content, including social media sites.