Ofcom, the United Kingdom’s technology regulator, has ordered social media companies to implement emergency “crisis protocols” designed to curb the rapid viral spread of illegal content. Under the new measures, which require parliamentary approval, platforms such as X and TikTok must establish dedicated communication channels for police and deploy intervention strategies when dangerous content begins to rise during public safety threats.
Why the government is intervening
The regulatory push follows concerns from the top of government regarding the speed at which misinformation travels during moments of civil unrest. Ofcom defines a crisis as an “extraordinary situation” that poses a serious threat to public safety, noting that standard moderation systems may be insufficient during such events.
The urgency of the move follows recent outbreaks of rioting, including incidents in Southampton and the widespread unrest that occurred after the murder of three girls in Southport during the summer of 2024. According to Ofcom, evidence from previous events shows that perpetrators use online services to incite racial or religious hatred, which can manifest as real-world violence.
What happens next
Once the measures receive parliamentary approval, social media companies will be legally required to have these protocols ready for immediate activation. If a crisis arises, platforms will be expected to utilize their dedicated police communication lines to coordinate responses.
Beyond these regulatory requirements, experts suggest that alternative methods could prove effective in mitigating the impact of misinformation. Research from the Centre for Emerging Technology and Security (Cetas) indicates that “debunking” efforts involving local councillors, community leaders, and police can successfully alert communities to false reports. The research cited a coordinated response to an incident at a Liverpool FC parade in May last year as a successful example of reducing the risk of misinformation running rampant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a crisis under the new Ofcom rules?
Ofcom defines a crisis as an “extraordinary situation” that presents a serious threat to public safety in the United Kingdom and is highly likely to have resulted from a significant increase in relevant illegal or harmful content.
Which social media platforms are affected?
While the announcement highlights sites such as X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, the measures apply to online platforms that will be required to maintain dedicated communication channels for police during identified crises.
Are these measures currently in effect?
No. The new measures will come into force only after they have been approved by parliament.
How much influence should technology companies hold over the information flow during a public safety crisis?
