UK Government Consults on Under-16 Social Media Ban and Safety Measures
Sir Keir Starmer has pledged a significant crackdown on children under the age of 16 using smartphones in the United Kingdom, with a formal consultation on new social media protections scheduled to launch in March. The government aims to ensure that no online platform receives a "free pass" concerning children's safety, vowing to position Britain as a global leader in online safety legislation.
Proposed Measures and Legislative Actions
The proposed measures include consulting on a ban that would prevent children under 16 from accessing social media platforms entirely. Additionally, the government plans to restrict features such as infinite scrolling, which can lead to excessive screen time, and prevent the use of VPNs to access illicit content. Another key focus is limiting interactions with online chatbots, which have raised safety concerns.
Ministers intend to close legal loopholes that currently allow chatbots to create deepfake nude images, a growing issue in digital spaces. Through new bills, they will introduce powers to swiftly adapt laws to evolving online behaviours, ensuring regulations remain effective against emerging threats.
International Models and Criticisms
Australia's recent ban on social media for under-16s is highlighted as a potential model for the UK. This Australian approach includes imposing significant fines on platforms that fail to comply with the regulations. However, it has faced criticism regarding privacy implications and questions about its overall effectiveness in protecting young users.
In the UK, the consultation will explore how such a ban could be implemented practically, considering technological enforcement and parental oversight. The government emphasizes that these steps are part of a broader strategy to enhance digital safety for minors, addressing both immediate risks and long-term behavioural impacts.
As the March consultation approaches, stakeholders from tech companies, child safety advocates, and the public are expected to provide input, shaping the final policies that could redefine online experiences for young people in Britain.
