Is Acorn concerned about the Online Safety Act?

[Edwin]

Was wondering how Acorn admins were planning to approach the Online Safety Act? It seems a lot of forums are shutting down ahead of the mid-March deadline.

As far as I can see, the new law is a classic example of overreach by people who don't understand how the internet works. There are very few exceptions, and the consequences of not complying are huge, including potentially multi-million fines. But whether it's well-drafted or terrible, it's coming... and soon.

There's more info in this Register news report...

The UK's Online Safety Act applies to Small Tech too

That niche forum running for 20 years – get ready, there's work to do

www.theregister.com

There's also a monster thread on a cycling forum that digs into the problem in great detail...

LFGSS and Microcosm shutting down 16th March 2025 (the day before the Online Safety Act is enforced) | LFGSS

www.lfgss.com

 

[Edwin]

Sorry, don't know what happened to the second URL. I'll try again below.

LFGSS and Microcosm shutting down 16th March 2025 (the day before the Online Safety Act is enforced) | LFGSS

www.lfgss.com

 

[ukbackorder]

Madness. Another wave of UK bureaucracy intended to fill the coffers and tell people what they can and can't say by the looks of it. I guess it's not surprising considering how bad the UK has become recently.

 

[Helmuts]

Good evening @Edwin, we introduced tougher laws on insults some time ago (those who didn't like it - left), as part of efforts to improve the well-being of our members (mostly UK individuals). I understand, that this legislation focuses on safeguarding people, particularly and especially children, from harmful online content.

As a platform, we do not provide or host illegal content. Additionally, children are not part of our audience, which is an especially important consideration under this law and related regulations. Content on our platform is moderated to the best of our ability, though it would be nice to have few moderators helping with this.

This is a legitimate business forum where members behave in a civilized, polite, and respectful manner. I believe this aligns with the values and expectations set forth by the legislation.

So, it's business as usual - polite, professional, and focused on fostering a positive environment.

Enjoy the Acorn community!

.. and keep an eye on the auctions feeds - we are working on something AMAZING - you will all love it!

Helmuts