UK Regulator Ofcom Launches Formal Investigation Into Meta Over Instagram Instants Feature

UK communications regulator Ofcom has opened a formal probe into Meta Platforms over whether it breached the UK Online Safety Act. The investigation focuses on whether Meta completed adequate risk assessments regarding illegal content and child safety prior to introducing Instagram Instants, an ephemeral messaging feature launched in May that automatically deletes content after viewing. Meta stated it takes its legal obligations seriously, engaged with Ofcom multiple times prior to launch, and included safeguards such as automatic Teen Account protections and screenshot restrictions. Meta is also pursuing separate legal challenges against Ofcom.