The UK is moving to ban social media use for under-16s, with the government saying this will be the strictest approach of its kind anywhere in the world.
Announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the new rules would prevent children under 16 from accessing major social platforms, including Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X and YouTube.
The legislation could come into force as early as next year. Additionally, it forms part of a broader push to tighten how young people interact with online services.
The policy also targets a wider set of online interactions. This includes restrictions on children talking to strangers in online games, using livestreaming features, and interacting with sexual or romantic chatbots. “Romantic companion chatbots” would also be required to enforce a minimum age of 18. Meanwhile, more general AI tools would need stronger safeguards around intimate content for minors.
The government’s framing is clear that this is about reducing exposure to addictive and potentially harmful design patterns in digital platforms. Starmer pointed specifically to features like infinite scrolling. He argued they are built to keep users engaged for long periods and can contribute to mental health issues and online harassment.
What isn’t included?
Not all services are included in the ban. Messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Signal will remain available. This suggests the focus is on public-facing, algorithm-driven platforms rather than private communication tools.
Enforcement is expected to be handled by Ofcom, which will also determine how age verification should work in practice. That could mean stricter identity checks. For example, methods already discussed under the Online Safety Act such as government ID uploads or facial age estimation systems might be used.
The UK is not acting alone here. However, it is positioning itself at the stricter end of the global conversation. Australia implemented a similar under-16 social media ban in late 2025. In addition, countries including Canada, France, Spain and Denmark are also considering comparable laws.
The government is expected to introduce legislation to parliament before the end of the year. The first phase of enforcement could potentially begin in spring 2027.
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