UK considers social media ban for children under 16

The UK government is considering new measures to restrict social media access for children under the age of 16, as part of efforts to improve online safety and protect young people's mental well-being.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce the proposed policy, which could bar users under 16 from accessing major social media platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, X, and Snapchat.

Under the proposal, gaming platforms would remain accessible, although interactions with unknown users could be restricted. The government is also considering banning AI-powered chatbots focused on romantic or sexual topics for anyone under 18.

Officials are exploring additional measures to reduce excessive nighttime social media use among teenagers, arguing that such steps are necessary to safeguard children’s online experiences and mental health.

However, critics have raised concerns that the proposed restrictions could affect privacy rights and unnecessarily isolate young people from the digital world. Questions have also been raised about the effectiveness of age-verification systems, following criticism of previous legislation aimed at confirming users’ ages online.

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The proposed measures come amid growing global concern over the impact of social media on the mental health, development, and safety of children and adolescents.