[1] The name is a word play on oko, Polish for eye, and an abbreviation for "Ośrodek Kontroli Obywatelskiej" (Centre for Civic Control).

[5] The site aims to promote democratic values, human rights and transparency of government by publishing fact-finding, research and analysis.

[7] OKO.press was founded in June 2016, through the Fundacja Ośrodek Kontroli Obywatelskiej "OKO" editors originating from the Polish media company Agora, as a non-profit investigative journalism website, with initial funding provided in form of grants by Stefan Batory Foundation.

[6] OKO.press describes its aims as investigative journalism, fact-checking of public debate, and stimulating discussion of important themes in the Internet.

On review of photographic evidence, Mikołajewska debunked Łysiak's statement, showing significant prevalence of far-right slogans and symbols such as the Nazi flag, Polish eagle, and celtic cross.

[11][better source needed] The European Journalism Centre (EJC) described OKO.press coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic as providing daily coverage on infection statistics and in reporting on constitutional restrictions, workers' rights, and a leaked government proposal to introduce a 60-hour working week and providing "fact check articles debunking false statements by top Polish politicians".

Independent media, which uncovers such lies and manipulations, are all the more dangerous for populists and their grip on power.In 2019, OKO.press lost a lawsuit filed by Kaja Godek in relation to an article published in OKO.press by Klementyna Suchanow.

[18] In early 2020, OKO.press was shortlisted for the Index on Censorship Freedom of Expression Awards, along with Hong Kong Free Press, SOS Médias Burundi and Venezuelan journalist Marco Ruiz Silvera.

[7] In September 2020, OKO.press received the Equality Crowns media award from Campaign Against Homophobia for "analyzing the events concerning the LGBT community in Poland carefully and with dedication".