The United Kingdom is set to introduce a nationwide ban preventing children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer moves to tighten online safety measures for young people.
Announcing the plan on Monday, Starmer said social media platforms are increasingly exposing children to harmful content and addictive features that negatively affect their wellbeing. The proposed restriction will cover popular platforms including TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X, while messaging apps such as WhatsApp will remain exempt.
The UK government hopes to pass the legislation before the end of the year, with implementation expected in spring 2027.
Beyond social media, authorities are also preparing tougher regulations for gaming services and live-streaming platforms that allow contact between children and strangers. Additional measures under consideration include overnight social media curfews and limits on endless scrolling for users under 18.
The move follows growing international concerns over the impact of social media on children. Australia became the first country to introduce a similar ban in 2025, while Canada and Indonesia have also moved to tighten online restrictions for minors.
According to the UK government’s consultation, which attracted over 116,000 responses, more than 83% of parents believe the risks of social media outweigh its benefits, while 91% support a minimum age requirement of 16.
The proposed ban forms part of a broader effort by the Labour government to strengthen child protection online, including tougher rules on pornography access, nude image sharing, sextortion, and online abuse targeting minors.
Source: AFP
