Ireland has declared war on harmful online content, launching its toughest-ever Online Safety Code aimed at reining in tech giants like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and Meta’s Facebook. The newly unveiled rules demand that these platforms protect users—especially children—from dangerous material, including self-harm, terrorism, and adult content.
Under the new code, social media companies must clean up their act by November 19 or face staggering fines of up to €20 million or 10% of their annual revenue. This marks the end of social media self-regulation and positions Ireland as Europe’s tech enforcer in the ongoing battle for online safety.