The UK government has announced plans to ban children under 16 from using social media platforms, prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move will protect young people from harmful content and addictive online features.
The proposed ban will cover popular platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Snapchat and X. However, messaging apps such as WhatsApp will remain available to younger users.
Starmer said social media companies expose children to content that can harm their mental health and wellbeing. He also argued that many platforms use features designed to keep users online for long periods.
As a result, the government wants stronger rules to protect children. Officials expect to introduce the legislation later this year. If lawmakers approve it, the ban could take effect next spring.
Furthermore, the government said online platforms must do more to protect young users from harmful interactions.
New Rules May Target Gaming Platforms
In addition to social media restrictions, the UK plans to introduce tougher measures for gaming and livestreaming services.
According to Starmer, children should not be able to communicate freely with unknown adults online. Therefore, the government is reviewing how gaming platforms and livestreaming services operate.
Officials are also considering overnight restrictions for young users. Moreover, they may limit infinite scrolling features that encourage long periods of screen time.
Australia Inspired the UK Proposal
The UK’s decision follows similar action in Australia. In December, Australia became the first country to introduce a nationwide social media ban for children under 16.
Consequently, British policymakers studied Australia’s approach while developing their own proposal.
Several other countries are also considering stricter online safety laws. Canada recently introduced legislation that would prevent children under 16 from opening social media accounts. Meanwhile, Indonesia has already begun enforcing similar restrictions.
Parents Strongly Support the Plan
The government said public support for the proposal is high. A recent consultation attracted about 116,000 responses.
According to official figures, more than 83 percent of participating parents believe the risks of social media outweigh the benefits for children. In addition, 91 percent support setting the minimum age for social media use at 16.
These findings strengthened the government’s case for tougher regulations.
Tech Companies Face Growing Pressure
The announcement comes shortly after the government warned technology companies about child safety measures.
Officials have given companies such as Apple and Google three months to improve tools that block children from creating, sharing or receiving nude images.
If companies fail to act, the government says it will introduce legislation. Therefore, pressure is growing on technology firms to improve online safety features.
The government also said technology companies have a moral responsibility to protect children from abuse, coercion and online exploitation.
Concerns About Child Safety Online
The government cited research from the Internet Watch Foundation to support the proposal. The charity found that 91 percent of online child sexual abuse reports in 2024 involved self-generated content.
As a result, ministers argue that stronger online protections are necessary.
While supporters welcome the proposal, critics question how authorities will enforce the ban. Nevertheless, the government insists that protecting children online remains a top priority.
For now, lawmakers will debate the proposal before deciding whether it becomes law.
