If you're a #FediAdmin I'd really recommend checking out this guide on the Online Safety Act by @iftas
https://about.iftas.org/2025/07/30/navigating-the-uk-online-safety-act/
#OnlineSafetyAct#OSA#Compliance#Moderation#Fediverse#Mastodon
Discussion
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Discussion
@saskia @iftas A question I have is to do with the federated nature of this place. If instance A prohibits say support for Palestine Action, but instance B does not so members of both can see and share such content is instance A responsible for that content? If so, how can it be workable? If not, what is the point?
@DavyJones @saskia @iftas Instance A is responsible for federating or not with Instance B, and for removing prohibited content when it is reported to them. It only removes it locally to Instance A, Instance B's original copy remains available and online, and Instance C can still see the content prohibited on Instance A.
That's how we get decentralised governance.
@saskia @iftas
In short, the problem with the Online Safety Act is that it is realistically unworkable for the average admin.
The problem with the regulations and this recommendation on your site is that the categories of prohibited content is extremely vague and could be selectively enforced based on the whims of the regulators.
For example, as a US citizen would the following statement be banned on UK systems?
"As a citizen of the USA I recommend everyone in the UK take to the streets and yell at their PM to allow speech about using picket knives for harvesting medical marijuana used for epilepsy treatment; medical treatment that should be available to all epilepsy patients."
That statement could fall under Foreign Interference, harassment, knives, and drugs, malinformation / misinformation.
Is my statement harmful to children through 16 year olds?
@Walker @iftas
Yes, there are a number of issues with the OSA. Many of which are still to be discovered as more aspects come into force.
For example, the wave of spam on here on Mastodon asking for users to verify their age is a direct result fo the loose terminology and Fedi platforms not knowing how they fit in.
@saskia @Walker @iftas
OK, I'll bite.
"That statement could fall under Foreign Interference, harassment, knives, and drugs, malinformation / misinformation."
No, it can't. It is a call to express dissent. That is protected speech. In no way does it fall under any of your labels. Your quote does not threaten public order, incite violence or hatred, or infringe upon the rights of others.
"Is my statement harmful to children"
No
Label definitions: https://connect.iftas.org/library/tools-resources/iftas-documentation/shared-vocabulary-labels/
@saskia @Walker @iftas
Anyone and everyone has the right to talk about whether or not you should be allowed to sell knives to children.
An admin that is notified that knives are being sold to children on their online service AND fails to remove that content/account would be liable.
Same as a pocket knife shop that sells knives to children.
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