Ofcom intimate image abuse enforcement programme (2026)
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Ofcom intimate image abuse enforcement programme[1]
United Kingdom[1]
Regulatory enforcement programme[1]
Online Safety Act 2023, sections 10(2) and 10(3)[1]
Opened September 9, 2026[1]
Programme opened September 9; new code measures take effect September 30, 2026[1]
September 9, 2026[1]
Overview
Ofcom opened an enforcement programme on September 9 to assess how higher-risk services prevent users from encountering or sharing non-consensual intimate imagery, including explicit AI-generated deepfakes. The programme focuses on adult and instant-messaging services and their duties under sections 10(2) and 10(3) of the Online Safety Act 2023.[1][2]
Scope and timetable
New Illegal Content Codes measures take effect on September 30. They recommend hash matching for services within scope, while allowing alternative measures that fulfil the legal duties; Ofcom’s announcement says alternatives must be equally effective. The opening record expects compliance by that date, or steps towards compliance shortly afterwards, and says potential failures may lead to formal enforcement.[1][2]
Hash matching uses a digital fingerprint to recognize images. Specialist coverage describes the programme as a proactive step ahead of the deadline. The programme’s opening does not itself establish that a particular platform has breached the law.[3][1]
Related coverage
References
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 Ofcom, NCII enforcement programme, opening record, September 9, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Ofcom, announcement on illegal intimate images and deepfakes, September 9, 2026.
- ↑ thinkbroadband, Tech firms face Ofcom enforcement over intimate image and deepfake protections, September 9, 2026.