Watchdog urges stronger powers for Ofcom to swiftly remove misleading social media posts linked to 2024 riots

The Chief Inspector of Constabulary, Sir Andy Cooke, has called for Ofcom, the UK media regulator, to be granted stronger powers to quickly remove misleading and inflammatory social media posts, particularly those that contributed to the 2024 summer riots. Cooke criticized the Online Safety Act, recently passed, for lacking the necessary tools to enable Ofcom to act promptly against harmful content. He emphasized that delays in removing such posts allow misinformation to spread virally and exacerbate public disorder. The report highlights that some police forces were under-resourced to manage the volume and speed of online content linked to the unrest, which was sparked by the killing of three children in Southport. More than 30 individuals have been arrested for social media posts related to the riots, with some sentenced for inciting racial hatred. The watchdog also recommended changes in laws concerning incitement to public disorder to better deter misleading posts. Ofcom responded that its role under the Online Safety Act is to ensure platforms have effective systems to protect users from illegal and harmful content, and it can take enforcement action if platforms fail to act. The report underscores the need for police and regulators to be more proactive and innovative in countering false narratives online to safeguard public safety.