UK regulator Ofcom investigates Meta over Instagram Instants feature risk assessments

The United Kingdom media regulator Ofcom has launched an investigation into Meta over its Instagram Instants feature, BBC News and Reuters reported on Tuesday. The probe will examine whether Meta failed to properly assess safety risks before introducing the tool, according to reports from BBC News, Reuters, and Ofcom. [1][3][4]

The Instants tool was launched on Instagram in May as a feature allowing users to share temporary photos with close friends that disappear after being viewed, BBC News reported. Ofcom said Meta was required to conduct a thorough risk assessment under the UK Online Safety Act before rolling out the feature, according to BBC News and The News International. [1][5]

In response to the investigation, a spokesperson for Meta stated that the company takes its regulatory obligations under the Online Safety Act seriously, BBC News reported. Ofcom is the government approved authority responsible for regulating internet, telecommunications, and broadcasting services across the United Kingdom. [1][8]

Instagram is a photo and video sharing social media platform owned by Meta Platforms, which also operates Facebook and WhatsApp. The regulator continues to monitor compliance with digital safety laws to ensure that technology companies protect online users and adhere to national standards. [7][8][9]