The United Kingdom is preparing to introduce new restrictions that could prevent children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to unveil the proposed policy as part of broader efforts to strengthen online safety for young people.

Government officials have reportedly spent months evaluating different approaches before settling on a framework similar to measures adopted in Australia.
Under the proposal, popular platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X, YouTube, Threads, Twitch, and Kick could become inaccessible to users below the age threshold.

The planned regulations would extend beyond social media. While gaming platforms may not face outright bans, companies would be required to remove features that allow younger users to communicate with strangers.

Additional safeguards are also expected to target access to romantic and sexually oriented AI chatbots, as well as measures aimed at reducing excessive late-night screen time.

Authorities are expected to rely on existing regulatory powers to enforce parts of the policy, although additional legislation may be necessary to fully implement the proposed restrictions.

The initiative follows the UK’s earlier adoption of age-verification laws designed to improve online child safety. Supporters argue that stronger controls are necessary due to growing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health.

Advocates have cited cases where exposure to harmful online content contributed to self-harm, eating disorders, and other psychological challenges among young users.

However, critics have questioned the effectiveness of such bans, warning that they could undermine privacy rights and limit young people’s ability to engage online.
Some experts also argue that evidence linking social media restrictions to improved mental health outcomes remains inconclusive.

Source: TechCrunch