Social media faces big changes under UK watchdog Ofcom rules | BBC News

Social media companies will face punishments for failing to keep children safe on their platforms, the UK's communications watchdog Ofcom has warned. Services like Facebook, Instagram and Whatsapp could face fines from the regulator if they do not comply with the new Online Safety Act - which comes into force early next year. Ofcom chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes said it was the responsibility of the firms - not parents or children - to make sure people were safe online. Companies will have three months from when the guidance is finalised to carry out risk assessments and make relevant changes to safeguard users. Subscribe here: http://bit.ly/1rbfUog For more news, analysis and features visit: www.bbc.com/news #SocialMedia #UK #BBCNews