Britain's communications regulator, Ofcom, has initiated a formal investigation into Meta's Instagram Instants feature. Launched in May, Instants allows users to share content that vanishes after being viewed. The probe centers on whether Meta conducted a "suitable and sufficient" assessment of potential risks, including harm to children and the proliferation of illegal content, prior to the feature's rollout.
This marks the first formal investigation against Meta under the UK's Online Safety Act. The Act mandates that online platforms rigorously assess potential risks before implementing significant changes to their services. Companies failing to comply face substantial penalties, including fines up to £18 million or 10% of their qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is higher.
Online Safety Act Requirements
The UK Online Safety Act places stringent requirements on social media platforms, search engines, and adult-content providers. These entities must proactively assess and mitigate risks, implementing safety measures such as age verification where necessary. The legislation aims to create a safer online environment, particularly for vulnerable users.
George Lusty, Ofcom's director of enforcement, emphasized the regulator's stance: “Our online safety laws are clear - significant changes to platforms must be risk assessed before they're launched.” He stressed that safety considerations should be integrated from the initial stages of product development, not merely added as an afterthought. Lusty affirmed that Ofcom will take action when providers fail to meet compliance standards.
Meta's Defense and Existing Safeguards
Meta has stated its commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities under the Online Safety Act. A company spokesperson confirmed that a risk analysis was conducted and Ofcom was briefed on the Instants feature multiple times before its launch. Meta also highlighted several built-in safety measures for Instants.
These safeguards include mechanisms to block screenshots, reshares, and content forwarding. Additionally, Instants does not feature a public feed, and existing Teen Account protections are automatically enabled for younger users. Meta has pledged full cooperation with Ofcom throughout the investigation.
Prior to this, Meta has challenged certain aspects of the Online Safety Act, including information requirements and regulatory fees. Ofcom also launched a separate investigation into Meta's WhatsApp Business product in January under the Communications Act.