Statement published 15 December 2025
Today we are publishing our updated Online Safety Information Powers Guidance, reflecting the new Data Preservation Notices duties and updating our guidance on Coroner Information Notices.
We have also published our Statement on Data Preservation Notices which addresses stakeholder feedback on our proposals and explains the changes we have made to the Online Safety Information Powers Guidance.
Under section 101(1) of the Online Safety Act 2023 (‘the Act’), Ofcom has information gathering powers to support a coroner’s or procurator fiscal’s investigation into the death of a child by issuing a Coroner Information Notice.
From 30 September 2025, if a coroner provides Ofcom with certain information about the death of a child, we have a duty to issue a Data Preservation Notice to relevant regulated services. We also have a power to issue a Data Preservation Notice to certain others.
These provisions enable Ofcom to support the work of coroners undertaking investigations in relation to the death of a child.
Separately, today we also published our Consultation on our draft Guidance in relation to the Deceased Child Users duties in the Online Safety Act. See here for more information.