UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a landmark ban on social media use for children under 16. The government intends to protect child mental health and safety from harmful content and addictive features.
The ban will apply to major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Snapchat. Messaging services such as WhatsApp are not expected to be included in the restrictions.
Additional regulations will target gaming and livestreaming platforms to prevent strangers from contacting children. The government aims to present the legislation to Parliament before Christmas.
Protections are anticipated to come into force in Spring 2027. The policy follows a public consultation indicating strong parental support for higher age limits.