UK telecoms regulation, Ofcom, General Conditions, numbering, spectrum, switching, enforcement
Ofcom confirmed its three-stage copper retirement framework in the TAR 2026-31. The second threshold consultation closes 12 May 2026. What operators and wholesale access purchasers need to know about the stop sell, charge control removal and full copper withdrawal timeline.
Ofcom regulates telecoms, broadcasting, postal services, spectrum and online safety in the UK. This guide explains what Ofcom does, its enforcement powers, and what the obligations mean for operators and platform businesses.
Ofcom’s second telecoms security report reveals that half of UK Tier 1 providers are failing on supply chain security, equipment testing and identity management. With DSIT proposing new Code of Practice measures extending to 2028, providers face a widening compliance challenge.
Ofcom opened a formal investigation into X over Grok AI deepfake imagery. The first major Online Safety Act enforcement action against a global platform tests the full range of OSA powers, from fines to business disruption measures.
Rob Bratby, Managing Partner | Last updated: March 2026 Ofcom has authorised satellite direct to device services in UK mobile spectrum bands for the first time. The Wireless Telegraphy (Direct to Device Satellite Communications) (Exemption) Regulations 2026, which came into force on 25 February 2026, exempt handsets and SIM-enabled devices from the licensing requirement under…
Ofcom’s Plan of Work 2026/27 shapes telecoms investment, altnet consolidation and compliance. Analysis of what it means for operators and dealmakers.
The Nexfibre-Netomnia deal, the government Statement of Strategic Priorities and Ofcom Telecoms Access Review 2026-31 together set the framework for UK fibre infrastructure transactions. What advisors and investors need to know about deal structuring in a consolidating market.
Ofcom published its Telecoms Access Review 2026-31 on 17 March 2026.
Quick answer. The European Commission’s proposed Digital Networks Act would replace the 2018 Electronic Communications Code with a directly applicable Regulation, consolidating spectrum, access and infrastructure rules across the EU. The European Commission has published its proposal for a Digital Networks Act (DNA), the most substantial reform of EU telecoms regulation in over a decade….
Quick answer. Ofcom’s Connected Nations 2025 report confirms UK mobile data usage rose 18% year-on-year, 5G standalone networks cover 83% of the UK population from at least one operator, full-fibre broadband reaches 78% of UK premises, and over one million households have stopped using a landline. The report is the primary independent data source for…
Quick answer. The European Commission has proposed a Digital Omnibus Regulation amending the GDPR, ePrivacy Directive, NIS2 and the Data Act, and repealing or consolidating several overlapping measures. The Commission’s Staff Working Document estimates annual administrative cost savings to business of over EUR 1.3bn once implemented. UK controllers processing EU residents’ data should track the…
Quick answer. The telecoms regulators of the UK (Ofcom), US (FCC), Canada (ISED), Australia (Department of Home Affairs) and New Zealand (National Cyber Security Centre) agreed in November 2025 to deepen cooperation on network security. Workstreams include preventing exploitation of Global Titles, intelligence sharing on SMS blasters and AI-enabled fraud, and coordination on subsea cables…