In recent days, unrest has spread across England and parts of Northern Ireland, leaving communities on edge and prompting a massive police response. The situation has been exacerbated by social media, yet major tech companies have remained largely silent about their role in the unfolding events.
Despite repeated inquiries from BBC News, most tech giants have refused to comment, with only the messaging app Telegram issuing a statement. This silence has drawn criticism from figures like Baroness Martha Lane Fox, a prominent UK tech leader and former Twitter board member, who expressed her dismay at the lack of accountability from these companies. She believes that tech firms’ reluctance to engage in political matters is a strategic move to avoid regulatory scrutiny, especially in a smaller market like the UK.
The few responses from tech companies have been limited and vague. Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, along with TikTok, Snapchat, and Signal, have all declined to comment. Snapchat sources indicated they are in close contact with UK regulators, but provided no further details. Telegram, however, acknowledged its role after a list containing names and addresses of immigration lawyers was spread on its platform, though it claimed to be actively removing posts that incite violence.
X, formerly known as Twitter and owned by Elon Musk, has also remained silent despite the platform being flooded with false claims, hate speech, and conspiracy theories related to the riots. Musk himself has made controversial comments, including a tweet suggesting “civil war is inevitable,” which was condemned by the UK Prime Minister’s spokesperson. Musk’s actions have drawn further criticism for exacerbating tensions.
Social media expert Matt Navarra suggests that tech companies’ reluctance to comment is a deliberate strategy to avoid political entanglement and potential backlash. He argues that these companies prioritize their profits over public safety, a sentiment echoed by others in the tech and media sectors.
With the upcoming implementation of the Online Safety Act, set to come into force early next year, UK regulators will gain more power to hold these companies accountable. However, there is growing concern, including from London Mayor Sadiq Khan, about whether these measures will be sufficient. The UK government is already considering broader actions to address the role of social media in the recent unrest.
A YouGov poll this week revealed that two-thirds of the British public want social media companies to be held more accountable. While big tech remains silent, it is clear that the UK is moving towards a future where these companies may face stricter regulations and greater scrutiny.
