Overview

• The Public Accounts Committee expresses concerns that the Online Safety Bill's full implementation by 2026 may not meet public expectations for swift and visible online safety improvements.
• Ofcom, tasked with enforcing the new regulations, will focus on systemic issues rather than individual complaints, potentially leaving users feeling unsupported.
• The committee urges Ofcom to be 'proactively frank' with the public about the limitations and capabilities of the Online Safety Act.
• Demands for further action include a legal ban on smartphones for under 16s, following a high-profile case involving the murder of teenager Brianna Ghey.
• Ofcom is encouraged to accelerate collaboration with international regulators, highlighting the global challenge of balancing online freedom and safety.