Debate Erupts Over Britain's Online Safety Law

The rollout of Britain's Online Safety Act, intended to bolster protection for children and remove illegal content online, is sparking significant backlash. Major platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and X have decried what they perceive as overreach in the law's enforcement.

Critics, including content creators and free-speech advocates, argue the mandates are implemented too broadly, effectively censoring legal content and invading user privacy. A public petition with over 468,000 signatures demands the act's repeal, but the UK government insists on its necessity.

Despite compliance efforts, companies voice concerns about the law's tight deadlines and punitive measures, raising the need for a more balanced approach. Meanwhile, Ofcom has initiated probes into compliance across multiple sites, highlighting the ongoing tension between regulation and freedom.

(With inputs from agencies.)