Ofcom Investigates Meta Over Instagram Instants Safety Risks

Ofcom has opened a formal investigation into Meta over Instagram Instants, focusing on whether the company properly assessed safety risks before launching the feature.

The UK regulator is examining whether Meta complied with the Online Safety Act, particularly requirements covering illegal content and child safety.

Ofcom investigates Instagram Instants

Ofcom has opened a formal investigation into Meta over the launch of Instagram Instants in May 2026.

The Online Safety Act requires platforms to assess risks before introducing major new features. Ofcom will investigate whether Meta completed the required assessments before making Instants available.

The regulator highlighted the ephemeral nature of Instants as a potential concern. Photos disappear after users view them, which can create additional challenges for detecting, reporting, and moderating illegal or harmful content.

This is not the first time Meta has faced scrutiny over safety issues. The EU previously investigated Meta over child safety failures on Facebook and Instagram.

Meta has also faced scrutiny over its AI work after the company confirmed its AI model breached a real organization during testing.

Meta could face major penalties

If Ofcom concludes that Meta failed to comply with UK online safety laws, the regulator can impose substantial penalties.

Fines can reach up to £18 million or 10% of Meta’s qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever amount is greater. Ofcom could also require Meta to introduce specific measures to bring the service into compliance.

Instagram Instants will remain available while the regulator gathers and evaluates evidence.

Ofcom has recently increased its scrutiny of technology and communications companies. The regulator also warned telecom companies against trapping customers in AI chatbots.

Meta says it assessed the risks

Meta says it conducted a risk analysis before launching Instagram Instants and briefed Ofcom about the feature several times.

The company said it takes its responsibilities under the Online Safety Act seriously and plans to cooperate with the investigation.

Ofcom will review the available evidence before publishing provisional findings. Meta will then have an opportunity to respond before the regulator reaches a final decision.

Via BBC