The Guardian view on policing the internet: Ofcom must pusher harder on illegal content | Editorial
Ofcom has intensified its efforts to regulate illegal content online, highlighted by a significant fine against a US-based suicide forum linked to numerous UK deaths. Despite this progress, campaigners express frustration over the slow pace of enforcement and the challenges posed by powerful tech companies. The government faces ongoing difficulties in balancing online safety with free expression, particularly regarding child protection and the regulation of harmful content.
- ▪Ofcom imposed a £950,000 fine on a US-based suicide forum implicated in over 160 UK deaths.
- ▪Campaigners are frustrated by the slow response to online safety issues and the reluctance of big tech to comply with regulations.
- ▪The Online Safety Act requires search engines to minimize the risk of illegal content but does not mandate its complete prevention.
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‘There is a debate to be had about the balance between online safety and free expression.’ Photograph: Dominic Lipinski/PAView image in fullscreen‘There is a debate to be had about the balance between online safety and free expression.’ Photograph: Dominic Lipinski/PAOpinionOfcomThe Guardian view on policing the internet: Ofcom must pusher harder on illegal contentEditorialJess Phillips’ frustration about online safety highlights the alarming reluctance to confront big techSun 17 May 2026 12.27 EDTLast modified on Sun 17 May 2026 12.28 EDTShareThe £950,000 fine imposed by Ofcom on a US-based suicide forum that is implicated in over 160 UK deaths marks an intensification of the regulator’s efforts to make the internet safer.
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