UK FINES US SUICIDE FORUM £950,000 OVER 160 DEATHS

The regulator took action after the nihilistic website remained accessible in the UK despite repeated notices to comply with online safety standards. Coroners' reports have linked the forum to multiple deaths across the country. Ofcom's enforcement comes amid criticism from online safety campaigners, who have accused the regulator of moving too slowly to protect vulnerable users. The fine represents the agency's latest attempt to block access to the site within British jurisdiction. The Online Safety Act, which came into full effect in 2023, gives Ofcom powers to penalize platforms that fail to address harmful content. The £950,000 penalty reflects the severity of the public health risk posed by the forum's continued operation. Ofcom indicated it would pursue additional measures to restrict UK access if the operator does not comply with the fine and takedown orders. The case highlights ongoing challenges regulators face in controlling harmful content hosted outside their jurisdiction.