Meta challenges Ofcom's fee and fine calculations under the UK Online Safety Act
+4 new sources since this summary was written
Meta Platforms has taken Ofcom to the High Court in London, arguing that the regulator’s method of calculating fees and potential fines based on qualifying worldwide revenue is unlawful and disproportionate. The challenge focuses on firms with annual revenue over £250 million, where fines can reach 10% of worldwide revenue or £18 million, whichever is higher. Ofcom defends its approach as proportionate, while also investigating Meta’s Instagram Instants feature. The hearing is set for Tuesday, 13 October 2026.
Why it matters
The court’s ruling will decide whether Meta must pay fees and possible fines calculated on its global revenue, which could raise the company’s regulatory costs. The decision may also set a precedent for how Ofcom applies the Online Safety Act to other large tech firms.
Key facts
- 1A High Court hearing on Meta’s challenge is scheduled for Tuesday, 13 October 2026. aa.com.tr
- 2The fees apply to firms earning more than £250 million a year in qualifying worldwide revenue. aa.com.tr
- 3Fines can be up to 10% of qualifying worldwide revenue or £18 million, whichever is greater. aa.com.tr
- 4Meta argues that Ofcom’s calculation methods are disproportionate and unlawful. aa.com.tr
- 5Ofcom says its approach is proportionate and strikes a careful balance in defining qualifying revenue. finance.yahoo.com
- 6Ofcom opened an investigation into Meta’s Instagram Instants feature a week before the court case. finance.yahoo.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 3 of 3 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.