Meta, the parent of Facebook and Instagram, has challenged UK media regulator Ofcom in the High Court over fees under the Online Safety Act. Introduced in July 2025, these fees are based on a company's worldwide revenue, with tech firms footing the bill for online safety work.
The dispute centres on Meta’s claim that Ofcom’s fee calculation methods are disproportionate and could unfairly burden a few major companies like itself. Meanwhile, Ofcom maintains its approach is lawful.
Lawyers for Meta argue that under the regulations, a handful of tech giants—such as itself—are bearing most of Ofcom's costs despite the act covering a wide range of internet services in the UK. The company also questions how penalties are calculated when multiple owned companies are jointly liable for breaches.
The next hearing is set for June, with a full hearing expected in October. Epic Games and the Computer and Communications Industry Association are considering intervening.
Meta remains committed to co-operating with Ofcom but argues that penalties should be based on revenues generated by services operating in countries where they operate, not just worldwide earnings.
