UK Announces Social Media Ban for Under-16s
The UK government has declared plans to prohibit social media access for individuals under the age of 16.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that the ban is scheduled to be implemented in early 2027.
He said keeping children off social media was "the right step for Britain" and the best way to keep them safe online.
Platforms Included in the Ban
The government specified that the ban will apply to social media platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X.
Additionally, the measures will mandate platforms to block children from livestreaming across various apps, including gaming platforms.
However, the government has not published a comprehensive list of all platforms subject to the ban.
Messaging services like WhatsApp and Signal are not intended to be included in the social media ban, according to the government.
Furthermore, officials are considering implementing curfews to restrict late-night social media use for older teenagers aged 16 and 17, with further details expected in July.
Restrictions on livestreaming and default settings preventing strangers from connecting with children will also be required for users under 17.
It is noted that most social media platforms currently require users to be at least 13 years old to create accounts and access their services.
Timeline for Implementation
Prime Minister Starmer indicated that the government aims to pass the necessary regulations before Christmas, enabling the new rules to take effect in early 2027.
He also mentioned that legislation permitting such actions has already been introduced.
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