Can children access your online services?

The Online Safety Act 2023 is a ground breaking law which seeks to protect both children and adults online, in particular by implementing strong protections to help safeguard children.

Ofcom has now released the final versions of its children's online safety codes (to be approved by parliament) and risk assessment guidance under the Act. Online service providers who are in-scope (i.e. those whose services are likely to be accessed by children) now have until 24 July 2025 to complete and record children's risk assessments.

From 25 July 2025 services must follow the measures outlined in the codes (or introduce equally effective protections) to keep child users safe from harmful content. 

Dame Melanie Dawes, the Ofcom Chief Executive noted the significance, stating:

‘These changes are a reset for children online. They will mean safer social media feeds with less harmful and dangerous content, protections from being contacted by strangers and effective age checks on adult content. Ofcom has been tasked with bringing about a safer generation of children online, and if companies fail to act they will face enforcement.’  

The Online Safety Act (which became law in October last year) is coming into effect in phases as Ofcom releases the codes of practice and guidance.

You can read Ofcom’s press release here and Ofcom’s final draft Codes of practice here.