The UK Online Safety Act 2023 outlines obligations for platforms in the UK related to harmful content, including non-consensual intimate imagery. It criminalizes the sharing of intimate images without consent, with potential penalties of up to two years' imprisonment for severe violations. The Act requires Ofcom-regulated platforms to manage NCII content and respond to user reports in set timelines. This includes AI-generated deepfake content as well as genuine images. For UK victims or platforms accessible from the UK, the Online Safety Act offers protections in addition to US regulatory rights.

Key facts about this term

  1. Understand UK law applies to UK-based victims and UK-accessible platforms The Online Safety Act is enforced by Ofcom for platforms used by UK residents.
  2. File a complaint with Ofcom for platform non-compliance Ofcom oversees enforcement for platforms that violate Online Safety Act obligations regarding NCII.
  3. For UK-based victims on US platforms, also utilize the TAKE IT DOWN Act Platforms accessible in the US must adhere to Section 223a notices, regardless of the victim's location.

Frequently asked questions

Can UK victims utilize both the Online Safety Act and the TAKE IT DOWN Act?

UK victims can simultaneously use both frameworks for US-accessible platforms. The TAKE IT DOWN Act's notice is directed to the platform's US legal team, while the complaint under the Online Safety Act is processed through Ofcom.

Does the UK Online Safety Act encompass AI deepfakes?

Yes. The Online Safety Act addresses intimate imagery, including AI-generated deepfakes. The 2024 Criminal Justice Bill specifically included deepfake intimate imagery as a criminal offense.

Related glossary terms