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The Online Safety Act 2023, UK GDPR, and existing criminal law provide significant protections for people online. You have the right to have illegal content removed, to control your personal data, and to be protected from harassment and abuse online.
Last updated: 2026-03-01
Your Rights
Right to Have Illegal Content Removed
Under the Online Safety Act 2023, platforms have a duty to remove illegal content (including terrorism, child sexual exploitation, harassment, and fraud). Ofcom is the regulator and can impose significant fines on non-compliant platforms.
Right to Data Protection
Under the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018, you have the right to know what data organisations hold about you, to request deletion ('right to be forgotten'), to object to processing, and to data portability. You can make a Subject Access Request (SAR) free of charge.
Protection from Online Harassment
Sending threatening, abusive, or grossly offensive messages online is a criminal offence. This covers social media abuse, cyberbullying, revenge pornography (sharing intimate images without consent), and online stalking.
Children's Online Safety
Platforms must protect children from harmful content, implement age verification or assurance measures, and provide children with tools to manage their experience. Parents can report concerns to Ofcom.
Right to Complain to the ICO
If an organisation breaches your data protection rights, you can complain to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). The ICO can investigate, issue fines, and order organisations to take action.
Common Myths
What I say online is protected by free speech
Free speech does not protect illegal content. Threats, harassment, revenge pornography, and incitement to violence are criminal offences whether committed online or offline.
Companies can keep my data forever
Under UK GDPR, data must be kept only as long as necessary. You can request deletion, and organisations must comply unless they have a lawful basis to retain it.
What To Do
Report Illegal Content
Report illegal content to the platform using their reporting tools. If the platform does not act, report to Ofcom.
Make a Subject Access Request
Write to any organisation asking what personal data they hold about you. They must respond within one month.
Report to the Police
If you are a victim of online crime (threats, harassment, revenge porn), report to the police via 101 or online.
Key Legislation
- Online Safety Act 2023
- Data Protection Act 2018
- UK GDPR
- Communications Act 2003
- Malicious Communications Act 1988