The UK's Online Safety Act, aimed at protecting children online, has sparked controversy over its broad regulatory powers and impact on freedom of speech. Critics argue the law empowers regulators like Ofcom to mandate extensive content removal, leading platforms to over-censor legal expression to avoid fines. Ofcom is reportedly considering penalties against the US-based platform 4chan for non-compliance, though enforcement across jurisdictions remains legally questionable. Additionally, Ofcom is investigating the social media platform X for "over-compliance" with the act, having censored posts related to migration and parliamentary speeches. The legislation also faces criticism for shifting focus toward restricting children's use of virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass age checks on pornographic sites, with calls from the Children's Commissioner for England for tougher enforcement and new VPN restrictions. Some reports indicate that children's exposure to online pornography has increased since the act's implementation. Supporters defend the law as necessary for safeguarding children, while opponents warn it risks stifling open discourse and digital sovereignty.