The UK plans to ban under-16s from using major social media platforms, with stricter age checks and new limits on harmful features such as livestreaming and stranger communication. The policy, aimed at protecting children online, could take effect by spring 2027 and may also restrict AI romantic companion chatbots and intimate chatbot functions for users under 18. #KeirStarmer #TikTok #Facebook #Instagram #Snapchat #X #YouTube #WhatsApp
Keypoints
- The UK plans to block under-16s from using social media platforms.
- The ban will cover platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, X, and YouTube.
- Messaging apps such as WhatsApp will not be included in the ban.
- The government will also restrict AI romantic companion chatbots and intimate features for children under 18.
- Officials will require highly effective age assurance and may add curfews and scrolling breaks for teens.
Read More: https://therecord.media/uk-to-ban-social-media-access-for-children-under-16