The UK Government is set to launch a social media ban for individuals under the age of 16, aiming to give children back their childhood. The ban, which will take effect by spring 2027, will prevent under-16s from accessing platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X.
Background and Motivation
Social media has become an integral part of daily life, but concerns have grown over its impact on young minds. The government hopes that restricting access will encourage more time for play and less for scrolling. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated, 'Parents want to keep their kids safe and happy, but the online world has made that harder than ever. We will do right by them by banning social media for under-16s and putting wider protections in place.'
Model Based on Australia
The UK's ban is based on Australia's approach, which became the first country to implement an outright ban on social media for under-16s in December 2025. Under this model, existing accounts for under-16s were deactivated, and new accounts cannot be created.
Affected Platforms
The ban will apply to user-to-user platforms that enable social interaction and use algorithms to dictate content. This includes major platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X. However, messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal are not expected to be included.
Additional Restrictions
Beyond the ban, the government will introduce blocks on harmful functions like livestreaming and stranger communications for children under 16. These restrictions will also apply to gaming sites and will be set as a default for under-16s and 17-year-olds to prevent an abrupt transition. The government is also exploring overnight curfews and breaks from infinite scrolling for under-18s, with further details expected in July. Additionally, AI 'romantic companion' chatbots designed to simulate sexual relationships will be restricted to users aged 18 and over.
Enforcement Measures
To ensure compliance, the government plans to introduce highly effective age assurance measures, making it harder for children to bypass safeguards. Ofcom will conduct a rapid study on effective age verification and will release an urgent review on its enforcement capabilities.
Prime Minister Starmer emphasized, 'This is a line in the sand. Tech giants had their chance and failed, but we’re stepping in to protect children, back parents, and set a new normal for future generations.'
