Meta has launched a fresh legal challenge against Ofcom over the UK's Online Safety Act, appealing its categorisation of WhatsApp and Instagram under Category 1 duties that impose additional regulatory requirements. These include protecting users from fraudulent ads and enhanced reporting on illegal content handling. Meta argues these duties are not designed for private messaging services. Roblox and Quora are also challenging their categorisations. Ofcom already faces judicial reviews from Meta in two other areas, with court dates in October, alongside challenges from other tech firms.

Former junior minister Damian Collins described this as a deliberate strategy by Meta to frustrate and delay implementation through "lawfare," noting big tech's "limitless resources" and calling for increased government funding for Ofcom. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy criticised Ofcom's enforcement as "incredibly slow," while Ofcom's Oliver Griffiths admitted being "underwhelmed" with progress in a "highly litigious environment."

The Act, which came into force in stages from April 2025, protects children from harmful content and enjoys broad public support. Meta also challenges the fee structure based on worldwide revenue and potential fines up to 10% of revenue or £18mn. TikTok and X are contesting information disclosure requirements. Industry insiders argue the fees align with UK telecoms regulation.