Imgur blocks UK access after ICO warns of fines over children’s data

Imgur has restricted access for UK users, showing a “content not available in your region” notice across the site and on third-party embeds. The move follows a provisional warning from the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) that it intends to levy fines against Imgur’s owner, MediaLab AI, after an investigation into the service’s handling of children’s data, age verification and privacy protections.

The ICO says its findings are provisional and that it will consider any representations from MediaLab before deciding on a monetary penalty. Regulators emphasized that a company exiting the UK does not remove potential liability for penalties related to breaches committed while operating in the jurisdiction.

“Imgur’s decision to restrict access in the UK is a commercial decision taken by the company,” the ICO said, while stressing that exiting the UK does not avert potential penalties.

Background: the ICO has increased enforcement around protecting children’s personal data in recent years. In 2023 the regulator fined TikTok $15.8M for alleged violations that allowed many children under 13 to use the app. The ICO has also raised concerns about other platforms’ AI features and their impact on minors’ privacy.

Current status: the investigation into MediaLab/Imgur is ongoing; the ICO’s notice is provisional and could lead to a monetary penalty after MediaLab’s response is considered.

Sources and further reading:

• TechCrunch — Imgur pulls out of UK after data regulator warns of fines
• Slashdot — Imgur Pulls Out of UK as Data Watchdog Threatens Fine

Note: This post originally summarized coverage that appeared elsewhere; the original source (Engadget) is not linked here per posting guidelines.