On May 1, BitChute received correspondence from Ofcom, requesting a detailed explanation of how our UK user-blocking mechanism aligns with the Online Safety Act’s accessibility and risk-mitigation requirements, including how it has been implemented, enforced, and justified. Ofcom also wanted to know which specific features UK users retain, and confirmation that a Child’s Access Assessment had been completed, and whether the required risk assessments and safety measures required by the OSA were in place. Here is our response:

As of 9 May 2025, BitChute has completely disabled UK user interactions on the BitChute platform. Every UK-based IP address is blocked from accessing content on the platform otherwise available to users elsewhere in the world. UK‑registered users may continue to upload videos that are viewable solely to users outside the UK. Our client strongly believes that UK users should continue to have the right to free expression, even if their UK neighbors cannot see or hear those communications. This view should not be controversial.

The effect of this latest technical change means that no UK user has access to any content on the BitChute platform. There being no recipient of user content within the UK, the BitChute video sharing service falls entirely outside the scope of any [UK] user‑to‑[UK] user regulatory scheme. Ofcom can verify this lack of access by registering a UK account to confirm that no content will be received, even on material that Ofcom itself may post to the platform.

Our client has at all times fulfilled all Ofcom’s past requests and complied with all obligations required under the law. We therefore maintain our position that BitChute is outside the scope of the OSA. Unless your office can point to clear statutory authority to the contrary, we consider all your outstanding concerns resolved and this ongoing conversation closed.