馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
UK regulator Ofcom investigates TikTok's child safety measures
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Britain's communications regulator, Ofcom, has launched an investigation into TikTok to determine if the social media platform is adequately protecting children from harmful online content under UK law. The probe will specifically examine TikTok's age verification model. Ofcom stated that the investigation aims to establish if there are reasonable grounds to believe TikTok has failed to comply with its legal obligations. TikTok, owned by China-based ByteDance, expressed confidence that it meets the requirements of Britain's Online Safety Act, enacted last year to strengthen laws concerning children's online safety. A TikTok spokesperson stated that the company strictly enforces age-appropriate experiences through platform rules and advanced age inference technologies. The Online Safety Act seeks to prevent minors from encountering harmful content related to suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, and pornography. It also mandates that tech firms protect children from misogynistic, violent, hateful, or abusive material, online bullying, and dangerous dares or challenges. Companies found in violation of these rules could face fines of up to 拢18 million or 10 percent of their revenue.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford's detailed penalty notes for Argentina players were discovered by Lionel Messi and his teammates after their 2-1 victory in the World Cup semi-final. Pickford had prepared instructions for each Argentine player, including faking dives or delaying movement, in anticipation of a penalty shootout that ultimately did not occur. For instance, his notes for Messi suggested diving one way after initially feigning to go the other, while for Enzo Fernandez, he expected a shot down the middle. Tottenham defender Marcos Senesi was seen explaining the English notes to Messi. The notes were taped to Pickford's water bottle and found as Argentina celebrated their comeback win. The image of the bottle was reportedly shared on Instagram by Argentina fitness coach Luis Martin and widely circulated by journalist Fabrizio Romano. While goalkeepers routinely study penalty takers, Pickford's preparations were not utilized as Argentina secured their win in normal time. The leaked notes could potentially aid Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simon in the upcoming final against Argentina, as Argentina's penalty routines are now public.
BreakingThe United States and Iran have exchanged strikes, escalating the conflict over the Strait of Hormuz. US forces targeted Iranian military sites, including coastal Bandar Abbas and Greater Tunb Island, to degrade Iran's ability to threaten mariners. Iran's IRNA news agency reported explosions in several areas of the country, and air defenses were triggered in Tehran. US allies in the Gulf, including Kuwait and Bahrain, also reported attacks. Iran's military stated it targeted US military facilities in Jordan with drones in response to perceived aggression. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and gas flows, is central to the renewed fighting. Iran had previously blockaded the strait and vowed to close it again until the US ends its aggression. The US military also reported disabling an empty oil tanker attempting to break a naval blockade of Iran's ports. In Iraq, Kurdish forces said a US-led coalition downed eight explosive-laden drones over Erbil, near the US consulate. Despite the renewed hostilities, mediated talks between the two sides have not formally ended. US President Donald Trump threatened further action if Tehran does not return to negotiations, while Iran's top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf indicated adherence to a memorandum of understanding depends on its clauses being implemented and beneficial to Iran. Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains low, and oil prices have risen. The US has also reimposed a blockade of Iran's ports. An Ir
The English Football Association has reaffirmed its support for head coach Thomas Tuchel following England's 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup semi-final. This loss prevented England from reaching their first men's World Cup final since 1966. Despite criticism regarding Tuchel's substitutions, the FA is standing behind the German coach, who is expected to remain in charge through UEFA Euro 2028. Tuchel signed a two-year contract extension in February after becoming England manager in January 2025. FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham expressed support for Tuchel and the team, acknowledging their effort despite the defeat. England will now play France in the third-place play-off. Tuchel reiterated his commitment to leading England into the home European Championship, viewing the semi-final appearance as an achievement despite the immediate disappointment.