Ofcom Probes Porn Site Kick Over Suspected Illegal Content
Britain’s media regulator, Ofcom, has launched two formal investigations into Kick Online Entertainment S.A., the operator behind pornography website Motherless. The probes are the latest actions under the UK’s new online safety law, which focuses on curbing illegal online material.
Complaints Trigger Ofcom Action
The investigations follow complaints alleging the presence of illegal content on the Motherless website. Reported material includes suspected child sexual abuse imagery and extreme pornography, both of which fall under criminal classifications in the UK.
These are among the first such cases initiated under the Online Safety Act, which came into force in 2023. The law sets higher standards for digital platforms, especially those hosting adult or user-generated content, with a strong emphasis on child protection and preventing access to illegal material.
Non-Compliance and Lack of Response
Ofcom stated that it requested a risk assessment from Kick to evaluate how the platform manages illegal content. However, the company failed to respond. This lack of cooperation could have serious consequences under the legislation.
Under the Online Safety Act, platforms are legally required to assess and mitigate risks related to illegal content. They must also take appropriate steps to prevent such material from being uploaded or shared.
If platforms are found non-compliant, Ofcom can impose strict measures. These include mandatory changes to content management practices or financial penalties. Fines can reach up to £18 million or 10% of a company’s global annual revenue, whichever amount is higher.
Broader Regulatory Efforts Underway
Ofcom’s investigation into Kick is its second enforcement move under the new law. Last month, it began reviewing an online suicide forum, marking the first time it had acted against an individual service provider.
These investigations signal the beginning of more robust enforcement efforts. Platforms operating in the UK will now face closer scrutiny to ensure they comply with the law and protect users from harmful or criminal content online.
with inputs from Reuters