Britain bans social media for children under 16
The UK government has introduced a ban on internet platforms for teenagers to give children back a 'real childhood'.
The UK government has officially announced a ban on social media services for children under 16. This was reported by the official UK government portal GOV.UK.
Under the decision, social networks will no longer be able to offer their services to minors in this age group, which is intended to reduce the time they spend in front of smartphone screens in favour of in-person communication and play.
Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube fall under the strict restrictions. At the same time, the authorities decided not to include messengers WhatsApp and Signal, as well as educational and music services, on the list.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that technology companies had a chance to keep children safe but failed to do so, which is why the government decided to 'draw a line' to support parents and protect the next generation.
In addition to blocking accounts, Britain will introduce the world's first bans on live streaming and communication with strangers for those under 16, which will even affect gaming sites. To enforce the new rules, highly effective age verification methods will be introduced, which are currently being studied by the regulator Ofcom. The main provisions of the ban are expected to come into force in spring 2027.
As SPZh reported, Norway will ban social media for children under 16.
