The Crime and Policing Act 2026 is a wide-ranging piece of legislation designed to strengthen public safety, modernize criminal law and respond to both traditional and emerging forms of harm. While the Government has framed the legislation around two primary objectives—tackling the epidemic of serious violence against women and girls, and equipping law enforcement with stronger powers to combat antisocial behaviour, crime, and terrorism—the Act is far broader in scope. 

Strengthening protection against online harm

A significant aspect of the Act is its focus on addressing online harm, particularly in light of rapidly evolving technologies.

New offences introduced include: the creation or distribution of so-called 'nudification tools' (AI tools designed to generate fake intimate images), taking intimate images without consent, and the possession or publication of certain types of pornography.

Regulation of AI chatbots

The Act also draws attention to the risks posed by AI chatbots. There has been growing concern that some AI systems fall outside the scope of the Online Safety Act 2023 (OSA). Although Ofcom has indicated that AI-generated content is likely already covered, questions have remained about whether the framework was robust enough.

The 2026 Act addresses this in two key ways: it creates a new criminal offence for developing or making available AI chatbots that generate certain prohibited content; and it amends section 216 of the OSA, granting the Secretary of State the power to introduce regulations aimed at reducing the risks posed by illegal AI-generated content and limiting the use of AI in facilitating or committing criminal offences. This strengthens the overall framework for tackling online grooming, exploitation and distribution networks. 

Stronger enforcement and accountability

The Act expands corporate criminal liability, meaning companies and partnerships can now be held responsible where a senior manager commits an offence within the scope of their authority—whether actual or apparent. This principle had previously only applied to specific economic crimes and marks a major shift in corporate accountability. This approach increases pressure on companies to prevent the hosting or spread of abusive material; to implement robust monitoring and reporting systems and to ensure senior management’s oversight of compliance. It forms part of a broader shift towards proactive prevention, stronger enforcement and better regulation of digital spaces.

Overall, the Crime and Policing Act 2026 represents a comprehensive effort to modernise the UK’s legal framework in response to both traditional crime and emerging digital threats. In particular, its provisions on online harm and AI reflect a growing recognition that technology is reshaping the nature of harm and criminal activity, existing legislation must evolve to remain effective, and accountability must extend to both individuals and organisations operating in digital environments. As enforcement and supporting regulations develop, the Act is likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of online safety, AI governance, and corporate responsibility in the UK.