UK government moves to ban social media for children under 16

The proposed restrictions target major platforms including Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X. While messaging services like WhatsApp and Signal remain exempt, the government intends to impose strict age gates on AI-driven romantic chatbots and limit interactive features in online gaming. Technology secretary Liz Kendall framed the policy as a necessary intervention, arguing that tech companies have consistently failed to self-regulate and protect younger users.

Ofcom is currently evaluating enforcement mechanisms, likely building on existing age verification protocols like government ID uploads or facial scanning introduced under the Online Safety Act. Beyond the initial ban, officials are considering additional measures, such as mandatory overnight curfews and disruptions to infinite scrolling feeds for users under 18. Parliament is expected to review the legislation before the year ends, with the first regulations potentially taking effect by spring 2027.