Age assurance engages the familiar trade-off in online safety regulation between protecting children and guarding privacy rights. As appetite grows for restrictions on access to digital services, we examine existing methods, regulatory approaches, and wider debate.
Statement of Strategic Priorities for Ofcom: Mobile and Spectrum
UK mobile operators continue to invest and deliver good consumer outcomes, but face persistent challenges around monetisation and increased political pressure. Here we share views on what the Government should consider including in the new SSP.
Deregulating telecoms
The EC is considering rolling back regulation on the sector, particularly ex-ante rules that often apply to former incumbent operators. We consider whether this deregulatory push is part of a wider global trend.
Three/Vodafone: A pathway to approval
Despite identifying competition concerns, the CMA has outlined a set of remedies that could lead to approval of the merger. In doing so it would transform the UK’s mobile market while helping to deliver government ambitions for connectivity and economic growth.
Statement of Strategic Priorities for Ofcom: Fixed Telecoms
The UK fixed telecoms sector has developed positively since the last SSP in 2019, with expanded full fibre coverage, significant network investment and various interventions to protect consumers. Here we share views on what the Government should consider including in the new SSP.
AI, disinformation and elections in 2024
As more than 60 countries head to the polls, regulators and tech firms alike are concerned with the impact AI could have on the spread of disinformation. We consider the experience in elections so far and the policy response aimed at securing votes.
PSTN switch-off: Public communications and preparedness
As countries prepare for the PSTN switch-off, tensions have risen over whether consumers are ready to make the migration to digital voice. We review the role governments have played in communicating about the switch-off and consider other challenges in readiness
Tackling digital exclusion in the UK: Priorities for a new national strategy
Digital inclusion remains an unfulfilled objective, with certain groups at particular risk of being left behind. With a general election expected this year, we review the areas the next Government should target in order to help close the digital divide
Unpacking broadband advertising rules
Broadband labelling and advertising rules bring greater transparency for consumers when comparing tariffs and choosing a service. We compare common elements of labelling schemes around the world and consider their relationship to competition in the market
Comparing approaches to regulating online safety
Online services have brought great benefits, but have also come with risks of harm and illegality. As regulators around the world are working to establish a safer online environment, we compare how these efforts stack up and the challenges being faced
