UK government consults on social media ban for under-16s | Computer Weekly

"The measures include age restrictions on the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), curfews on social media, and restrictions on a range of technology functions for children, including livestreaming and sharing their geographic location. In its consultation document, the government stated that there would be no exemption for services that use end-to-end encryption."

"The UK government said parents are concerned about the impact social media is having on their children's sleep, concentration and mental health, and are worried about children talking to chatbots and relying on their advice. Parents and campaign groups have called for an outright ban, it said, but children's charities have warned that a blanket ban could drive children to less regulated parts of the internet or leave them unprepared when they do go online."

"Prime minister Keir Starmer announced plans in a post on Substack in February to implement a minimum age for social media in a matter of months, to restrict addictive features such as endless scrolling or autoplay for children on social media apps. The move follows announcements by a growing list of countries of their intention to introduce social media bans in the wake of Australia's ban in December 2025, including Germany, Spain and France."

The UK government initiated its most ambitious social media consultation, seeking input from parents, children, technology companies, and civil society on child safety measures. Proposed restrictions include banning under-16s from social media, implementing overnight curfews, restricting VPN use, and limiting livestreaming and location-sharing features. The government plans pilot programs with teenagers to test social media bans and screen time limits. These measures address parental concerns about impacts on sleep, concentration, and mental health. While some groups advocate for outright bans, children's charities warn that blanket restrictions could push children toward less regulated internet spaces or leave them unprepared for eventual online engagement.

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