UK Regulator Imposes Fine on 4Chan
The United Kingdom has imposed a £20,000 (approximately $26,000) fine on controversial social media platform 4Chan for failing to comply with Online Safety Act (OSA) investigation requirements. According to industry reports, UK telecoms regulator Ofcom issued the penalty after 4Chan ignored legally-binding information requests concerning its global revenue and illegal content risk assessment procedures. Data shows this marks one of the first significant enforcement actions under the new online safety legislation, signaling the regulator’s intent to pursue platforms that obstruct compliance investigations.
Escalating Penalties for Non-Compliance
Beginning tomorrow, 4Chan faces additional daily penalties of £100 (around $133) for up to 60 days or until compliance is achieved, potentially reaching a maximum of £6,000 (approximately $8,000). Ofcom enforcement director Suzanne Cater emphasized that “any service which flagrantly fails to engage with Ofcom and their duties under the Online Safety Act can expect to face robust enforcement action.” The current fines remain substantially below the OSA’s maximum penalty threshold of £18 million (around $24 million), as the investigation continues.
Broader Regulatory Context
This enforcement action occurs alongside other significant regulatory developments affecting technology companies. According to analysis of recent global tech regulation, the Netherlands has intervened in semiconductor ownership by assuming control of a Chinese-owned chipmaker. Meanwhile, experts note that health technology investment continues to surge with smart ring manufacturer Oura securing $900 million in funding from Fidelity. These parallel developments highlight the increasingly complex regulatory and investment landscape facing technology platforms worldwide.
The 4Chan case demonstrates Ofcom’s determination to enforce the Online Safety Act’s provisions, particularly regarding platforms’ cooperation with investigations into potential online harms and revenue transparency. The regulator’s actions suggest that similar enforcement measures could target other non-compliant services operating in the UK market.
