UK to ban under-16s from major social media platforms

Children under the age of 16 in the United Kingdom will be restricted from accessing several major social media platforms

Children under the age of 16 in the United Kingdom will be restricted from accessing several major social media platforms under new government plans aimed at improving online safety.

The proposed measures will affect some of the world’s most popular social media apps, including TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Instagram, X, Reddit, Facebook, Twitch, Kick and Threads.

The move is part of wider efforts to protect young people from harmful online content, cyberbullying, online exploitation and the potential negative effects of excessive social media use.

Under the planned rules, technology companies will be required to introduce stronger age verification systems and take greater responsibility for preventing under-16 users from creating accounts.

Government officials say the changes are designed to create a safer digital environment for children while addressing concerns raised by parents, campaigners and child protection groups.

Supporters of the restrictions argue that social media platforms have a responsibility to protect younger users from online risks. They say stronger checks are needed as children are increasingly exposed to harmful material and online pressures.

However, critics have questioned how the rules will be enforced and raised concerns about privacy, age verification and whether young people may try to bypass restrictions.

The announcement has sparked a major debate across the UK about the balance between protecting children online and maintaining freedom of access to digital platforms.

Further details, including the exact implementation timeline and enforcement measures, are expected to be announced by the government.