New cybersecurity risks linked to the Online Safety Act

The introduction of the Online Safety Act brings significant cybersecurity concerns for UK residents.

Cybersecurity risks emerge from the Online Safety Act and age verification

The Online Safety Act took effect in the UK on July 25, 2025, requiring age verification for residents accessing certain content. This change has driven a surge in VPN usage as people seek to protect their personal information from exposure. Various platforms, including social media, have begun utilizing third-party services for age verification, raising alarms about data security. Concerns focus primarily on the risks of data breaches, potential identity theft, and privacy violations from external firms, particularly those based in the US, which may be compelled by law to share user data with governmental authorities.

The implications of the Online Safety Act extend beyond just age verification; they touch on broader issues of data privacy. With personal identification becoming critical for site access, the risks of misuse soar. Third-party services play a significant role in this new landscape. As more users embrace VPNs to evade the law's requirements, companies must address data security to build trust. Otherwise, users might hesitate to engage fully with online content, viewing it as too risky. This tension underscores a pivotal moment in balancing regulatory compliance with user privacy, raising serious questions about the future of digital security.

Highlights

These risks highlight the urgent need for stronger data protection measures in the digital age.