Search results : 805

On 9 August 2023, Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, published its first report on video-sharing platforms’ (VSPs) user policies. The report highlights examples of good practice, but also underscores the need for VSPs to simplify their terms, improve communication of content guidelines, and enhance training for content moderators to create a safer online environment. Background Ofcom was appointed as the regulator for UK-established video-sharing platforms (VSPs) in November 2020. The Communications Act 2003 lists measures that VSP providers must take, as appropriate, to...

On 31 July 2023, UK pay-television operator Sky was granted a High Court order requiring internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to illegal streams across a range of the broadcaster’s linear channels. Background Against the backdrop of escalating piracy concerns (including, e.g., the use of internet TV boxes pre-loaded with software facilitating illegal streaming), Sky has found in recent years its ISP division named as a respondent in injunction applications filed at the High Court in London. To mitigate the prevalence of illicitly duplicated content, film production studios,...

On 10 January 2023, Ofcom launched its enforcement programme into age assurance measures on UK-established adult video-sharing platforms (VSP) – the goal of which is to look at age assurance measures in place on VSPs specialising in adult content under Ofcom’s jurisdiction. Ofcom may launch so-called enforcement programmes to look at a problem or area of concern relating to a particular group of stakeholders – in this case VSPs – or to a whole sector. The launch of the programme coincided with Ofcom entering the second year of the VSP regime, following the October 2022...

The UK Government introduced the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill into the House of Commons on 25 April 2023 with the aim of “driv[ing] growth, innovation and productivity”. It is a substantial bill comprising six parts and 26 schedules and reflects proposals found in two consultation papers from 2021: A new pro-competition regime for digital markets and Reforming Competition and Consumer Policy. The Bill covers two main areas: proposed competition reforms including a specific emphasis on digital markets; and reforms of consumer law enforcement and the introduction of...

The UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology published a white paper on 29 March 2023 entitled "AI Regulation: A Pro-Innovation Approach" (the White Paper). The White Paper sets out the UK Government’s proposals to regulate artificial intelligence (AI). The proposed regulatory framework adopts a proportionate, trustworthy, adaptable and clear approach. The White Paper outlines five clear principles that regulators, like Ofcom and the Competition and Markets Authority, should consider to best facilitate the safe and innovative use of AI in the sectors...