Delivery of Online Safety Act 2023 regime

Throughout 2026, Ofcom is expected to deliver the final major components of the Online Safety Act 2023 regime, which is designed to protect users, and in particular children, from harmful online content. Key developments expected during Q2 and the summer include:

• Publication of the categorisation register, identifying services that fall within scope of the enhanced duties;
• Publication of additional codes of practice applicable to categorised services;
• Expanded transparency reporting requirements; and
• Further supervision and enforcement guidance from Ofcom.

These materials will complete the regulatory framework established by the Act and will trigger new compliance obligations for in-scope services. Retailers with an online presence, including those operating e-commerce platforms, online marketplaces, or user-generated content features, should assess whether their services fall within scope. Organisations should plan for internal governance, reporting, and product design updates once the final materials are published, to ensure they can respond promptly to the new obligations.

You can read more on Ofcom’s approach to implementing the Act here.