4chan and Kiwi Farms Sue UK Over Age Verification Laws

The anonymous reader reports that 4chan and Kiwi Farms have initiated a lawsuit against the UK’s Ofcom in U.S. federal court, fulfilling a promise made on August 23, 2023. The lawsuit argues that Ofcom’s threats and fines against the platforms constitute foreign judgments violating U.S. free speech laws. The entities claim they are U.S.-based and not subject to UK laws, yet Ofcom has been attempting to fine and block them, underscoring the complexities of enforcing age verification laws on international platforms. The lawsuit labels Ofcom an ‘industry-funded global censorship bureau,’ accusing it of overreaching in regulating internet communications worldwide. Ofcom has been investigating 4chan for alleged violations of the Online Safety Act, which could result in daily fines of approximately $26,000. Kiwi Farms has also been targeted with potential penalties. The legal battle highlights the tension between international regulatory efforts and the right to free expression. “American citizens do not surrender our constitutional rights just because Ofcom sends us an e-mail,” stated Preston Byrne, a lawyer representing 4chan and Kiwi Farms. Ofcom’s spokesperson emphasized that any service with a connection to the UK must protect UK users, regardless of their location.