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Tech
May 15, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

X to Block UK Access to Terrorist-Linked Accounts Under Ofcom Deal

AI Summary
X has agreed with UK regulator Ofcom to block UK users from accounts linked to proscribed terrorist groups and to review at least 85% of flagged extremist content within 48 hours. The deal is part of a broader push to tighten online safety under the UK’s Online Safety Act.

X has agreed with the UK communications regulator Ofcom to block access from the United Kingdom to accounts tied to proscribed terrorist organisations and to accelerate the review of illegal terrorist and hate content.

Agreement Details: Blocking Terrorist‑Linked Accounts

  • All UK users will be denied access to accounts that post illegal terrorist material and are linked to groups proscribed by the UK government.
  • The platform will also review, within 48 hours, at least 85% of flagged illegal terrorist and hate content.
  • Review outcomes will be guided by expert advice and the UK’s Online Safety Act.

Quantitative Commitments in the Deal

  • Review window: 48 hours from the time content is flagged.
  • Minimum review rate: 85% of content reported through X’s illegal‑content reporting tool.
  • Regulatory monitoring will continue as Ofcom assesses compliance.

Impact on the UK’s Online Safety Landscape

The commitment arrives amid rising concerns over hate crimes targeting the UK’s Jewish community and criticism that X has historically struggled with moderation. By enforcing a rapid‑review mechanism, the regulator aims to set a benchmark for other platforms operating in the UK.

  • Potential reduction in the spread of extremist propaganda.
  • Increased pressure on X to address broader racism and hate speech, as highlighted by the Antisemitism Policy Trust.
  • Signals to other social‑media firms that stricter compliance may become the norm under the Online Safety Act.

Looking Ahead: Regulation and Platform Responsibility

Analysts expect that the Ofcom‑X agreement will be a test case for future enforcement actions. If X meets the 85% review target, regulators may expand similar obligations to other content categories. Conversely, any shortfall could trigger fines or more invasive oversight, pushing X to invest further in AI‑driven moderation tools.