UK Regulator Investigates Meta Over Instagram's Disappearing "Instants" Feature

The UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, has launched an investigation into Meta Platforms, Inc. over its Instagram "Instants" feature. Ofcom is examining whether the social media giant breached its duties under the UK's Online Safety Act (OSA) by failing to properly assess the risks associated with the feature before its launch.

Instants, introduced in May on Instagram, allows users to take and share instant images with a select group of friends. These photos are designed to disappear after being viewed. However, Ofcom stated that Meta had not adequately assessed the potential risks posed by this feature prior to its release, a requirement mandated by the OSA.

"Our online safety laws are clear – significant changes to platforms must be risk assessed before they're launched," said George Lusty, Ofcom's enforcement director. "This is a vital step that tech firms must take to protect their users. You wouldn't launch a new car without testing it properly, and it's the same for online services."

Ofcom's investigation will specifically look into whether Meta fulfilled its obligations to conduct "a suitable and sufficient illegal content risk assessment and children's risk assessment" before rolling out Instants. The Online Safety Act requires platforms like Meta to conduct and update risk assessments to identify and mitigate risks, including those related to illegal content and harm to children.

A spokesperson for Meta acknowledged the investigation, stating the company takes its regulatory obligations seriously. "We conducted a risk analysis and briefed Ofcom about this feature on a number of occasions before launching it," the spokesperson said. "We will of course co-operate with Ofcom during this investigation."

Under the OSA, platforms are required to address risks such as pornography, promotion of self-harm or suicide, and content involving abuse, hate, or bullying, which are categorized as "priority primary content." They must also demonstrate how they prevent children from encountering harmful material.