Under-16s will be banned from using online marketplaces such as eBay and Vinted amid concerns the platforms could be used to groom children. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has indicated she will expand the social media ban to cover online marketplaces in response to reports that their messaging functions are being used by strangers to ask children for indecent photos.
eBay, Vinted, Depop and Facebook Marketplace are all set to be included in an extension of the restrictions. Research for Ofcom suggested that as many as 19% of children aged between eight and 14 use eBay at least once a month, with 15% using Vinted monthly.
Concerns over messaging functions
While the sites are used by most to buy cut-price and second-hand items, charities have warned that they are also being used by some to ask children for indecent images in exchange for either money or gifts. The Children’s Society said in evidence submitted to Parliament that different websites used by groomers depended on the demographic they are targeting. For example, those from disadvantaged backgrounds were more likely to be targeted on Vinted.
A government source said there was an ‘increasing body of evidence’ that under-16s were being targeted on these platforms and being put at risk. Restrictions could also be placed on online gaming platforms, which also have messaging functions which allow strangers to speak to children.
Enforcement and timeline
While some marketplaces insist their platforms are not open to under 18s, Ofcom data indicated these rules were being circumvented. The under-16s ban on online marketplaces is likely to come into force via secondary legislation by the end of 2027.
A spokesperson for eBay said: ‘At eBay we are focused on providing a trusted and safe marketplace experience for our millions of customers. ‘While the details of the proposed legislation are not yet clear, we look forward to understanding more and continuing to work constructively with the Government.’
Metro has contacted Depop, Facebook parent company Meta, and Vinted for comment.
