Ever wonder what the Online Safety Act actually does? In plain English, it’s a set of rules that makes sure websites, apps and platforms keep the internet safe for everyone. The government wants to stop harmful content, protect kids and give you more control over what you see online.
It’s not just for big tech giants – any service that lets users share or upload material can fall under the law. If you’ve ever posted a video, chatted in a forum or run an online shop, you might need to know what’s changing.
The act focuses on three main ideas: removing illegal content quickly, tackling illegal hate or extremist material, and protecting users from dangerous or misleading advice. Platforms must have a clear system to report and take down harmful posts within a set time – usually 24 hours for the most serious stuff.
There’s also a duty of care for children. Services that attract kids need extra safeguards, like age‑verification tools and a stricter review of content. If a platform repeatedly fails, it could face hefty fines or even be forced to shut down in the UK.
Transparency is another big point. Companies must publish an “online safety report” each year showing how they handle complaints, what steps they take, and any incidents that slipped through. This lets users see what’s being done and holds platforms accountable.
First, keep your privacy settings tight. Most platforms let you decide who can see your posts and who can contact you. Turn on two‑factor authentication – it adds a second layer of security if someone tries to hack your account.
Second, use the reporting tools built into apps. If you see hate speech, dangerous challenges or scams, flag them. The more you report, the faster the platform can act, and the law rewards quick removal.
Third, teach kids about online safety. Show them how to recognize suspicious messages and encourage them to talk to you if something feels off. Many services now have parental controls – activate them to limit exposure to adult content.
Lastly, stay informed. The Online Safety Act will evolve, and platforms may update their policies. A quick check of the platform’s safety report can tell you if they’re meeting the standards.Bottom line: the Online Safety Act is about making the internet less scary and more reliable. By knowing the main rules and using the tools at your fingertips, you can browse, share and create with confidence.
Joey Barton returned to social media to slam Gary Lineker for suggesting criticism of Marcus Rashford has racial bias. Barton quit platforms earlier this month citing the UK’s Online Safety Act, but reappeared on Aug. 13 to fire off an insult. The post drew backlash and revived scrutiny of Barton’s online conduct after his costly libel case involving Jeremy Vine.