The United Kingdom (UK) is preparing to introduce some of the world’s strictest rules on children’s internet use, with plans to ban those under 16 from accessing major social media platforms.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the proposals are aimed at protecting young people from harmful online content and addressing growing concerns about the impact of social media on their mental health and wellbeing.
Under the proposed reforms, which could take effect from spring 2027, children below 16 would be blocked from using platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X. The government is also considering additional measures, including restrictions on livestreaming, communication with strangers, overnight social media curfews and tools designed to reduce excessive scrolling among minors. Similar safeguards would remain active by default for 16- and 17-year-olds.
The British government said the policy builds on Australia’s landmark social media legislation but goes further by extending protections to gaming platforms and other online services where children interact with unknown users. Officials argue that technology companies have not done enough to safeguard young users, making government intervention necessary. Starmer said many parents have expressed concern that social media addiction is affecting children’s sleep, family time, play and overall mental health.
The reforms also target artificial intelligence platforms. AI “romantic companion” chatbots that simulate intimate relationships would be restricted to adults aged 18 and above, while similar AI services could face tighter age limits.
The government said the proposals have strong public backing, citing a consultation that attracted more than 116,000 responses, with the vast majority of parents supporting a social media ban for children under 16. Communications regulator Ofcom has been tasked with developing stronger age-verification systems to enforce the new rules.