UK regulator Ofcom investigates Meta over Instagram Instants risk assessment

On October 6, 2026, Britain's communications regulator Ofcom opened a formal investigation into Meta Platforms, the owner of Instagram, over potential breaches of UK online safety laws. The probe focuses on whether Meta conducted adequate risk assessments for its Instagram Instants feature before launching it in May. Ofcom will examine if the company properly evaluated risks of illegal content and harm to children. George Lusty, Ofcom's enforcement director, stressed that significant platform changes must be risk-assessed before launch, and safety must be built into design. The investigation could lead to penalties if Meta is found non-compliant.