Ofcom has published a statement that sets out new measures to be included in the Illegal Content Codes of Practice, under the UK’s Online Safety Act 2023 to help tackle intimate image abuse online.
The statement focuses on reducing the spread of non-consensual intimate images online, including intimate image abuse, “revenge porn”, and AI-generated sexual deepfakes.
As part of the proposed measures, certain online platforms and service providers would be expected to use ‘hash matching’ technology to help detect and remove known abusive intimate content.
‘Hash matching’ works by creating a unique digital “fingerprint” of an image or video, allowing platforms to identify if the same, or slightly altered, harmful content is uploaded or reshared. The aim is to reduce the repeated sharing and circulation of abusive intimate material online.
The statement reflects growing recognition of the serious impact technology-facilitated abuse can have on those affected, including emotional distress, fear, humiliation, and ongoing trauma linked to content resurfacing online.
It also highlights increasing concerns around the developing role artificial intelligence (AI) may play in online harm, particularly through the creation and spread of AI-generated sexual deepfakes and manipulated intimate imagery.
At Nexus, we welcome these proposed measures and the continued focus on strengthening protections for those affected by online abuse. As technology continues to evolve, it is vital that online safety measures evolve alongside it to help prevent future harm and improve accountability across digital platforms.
The drafted amendments set out in the statement will be published in Summer 2026, with the proposed measures expected to come into force in Autumn 2026, subject to approval.
You can read the full Ofcom statement here.
