Imgur withdraws from the UK after ICO warning over data practices

Image-sharing platform Imgur Inc. announced it would block UK access following warnings from the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office. The regulator had expressed concerns about Imgur’s data-handling practices, specifically when children’s information is involved. In response to the investigation and ahead of any conclusions or fines, Imgur chose to exit the UK market. 

This is an interesting side of data privacy regulation and the business impact it might have on various markets. Companies operating across multiple privacy regimes may choose to avoid certain areas based on the investment required by local privacy standards.