Ofcom has unveiled plans to bring BBC online content under formal regulation for the first time, extending broadcast-style standards to the corporation’s websites, apps and social media accounts.
The proposals follow new powers granted to the regulator through the Government’s BBC Mid-Term Review and would give Ofcom the ability to enforce rules covering BBC online material, rather than simply issuing non-binding opinions.
Under the proposed Online Standards Code, BBC content published on its websites, apps, social media channels – including reposts – and educational services would be subject to enforceable requirements on issues such as due impartiality, accuracy, harm and offence, and the protection of under-18s. While the framework mirrors existing broadcasting standards, Ofcom says the rules have been adapted where necessary to reflect the different nature of online content.
Previously, Ofcom could only consider complaints about BBC online material against the broadcaster’s own Editorial Guidelines and publish an advisory opinion. The new regime would allow the regulator to investigate breaches formally and, where appropriate, impose sanctions.
Alongside the new code, Ofcom is proposing greater oversight of the BBC’s complaints process. Viewers and users will still be required to complain to the BBC in the first instance, but Ofcom will regularly review a sample of complaints that reach the broadcaster’s Executive Complaints Unit to assess whether issues have been handled appropriately or merit a formal investigation.
The regulator has also published a protocol setting out how those reviews will be conducted, including how complaints will be selected and when further regulatory action may be taken.
The consultation on the proposed Online Standards Code and accompanying complaints procedures runs until 27 August 2026. Ofcom expects to publish its final decisions later this year, together with guidance explaining how it expects the BBC to apply the new rules in practice.
Source: https://www.broadbandtvnews.com/2026/07/02/ofcom-proposes-tougher-regulation-of-bbc-online-content/
