Ofcom opened an investigation on October 6 into whether Meta met its risk-assessment duties before launching Instagram Instants. The UK regulator is examining assessments covering illegal content and risks to children.
Instants launched on May 13 as a feature within Instagram Direct, enabling users to share photos and videos captured in the application. Ofcom describes the content as ephemeral.
The case concerns whether Meta carried out suitable and sufficient further assessments before a significant change to its service. Ofcom’s case notice identifies sections 9(4) and 11(4) of the Online Safety Act.
Meta told Reuters it had conducted a risk analysis and briefed Ofcom several times before launch. The company said it would cooperate with the investigation.
An investigation is not a finding of breach
Ofcom explicitly says opening the case does not establish that Meta breached its duties. The regulator will gather and analyse evidence before determining an outcome. Its notice lists potential penalties where failures are established; no fine or final compliance finding was announced when the investigation opened.
Sources
Ofcom investigation announcement, October 6, 2026
Ofcom enforcement case notice
Reuters: Meta response, October 6, 2026
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