In a significant move aimed at enhancing online safety for children, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans to restrict social media access for users under the age of 16. This initiative comes as part of a broader strategy to combat the potential harms posed by digital platforms. A consultation process is set to commence in March, allowing parents and young people to voice their opinions on the proposed measures.
Proposed Measures to Enhance Online Safety
The government is actively exploring a range of measures to safeguard children online. These include a potential ban on social media usage for those under 16, as well as restrictions on features like infinite scrolling, which can contribute to excessive screen time. Additionally, plans are in place to prevent minors from using virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass age restrictions on adult content. Measures to limit interactions with AI chatbots are also under consideration, particularly in light of concerns regarding the creation of harmful content.
Sir Keir Starmer has emphasised that no online platform will receive a “free pass” regarding child safety. He stated, “Technology is moving really fast, and the law has got to keep up. With my government, Britain will be a leader, not a follower, when it comes to online safety.”
Timeline for Implementation
The timeline for these proposals is ambitious. The consultation on new social media protections will kick off in March, with the government committed to acting swiftly on the results. Additionally, immediate steps are being taken to close legal loopholes that have allowed certain AI chatbots to produce harmful content. An amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill is expected to provide the government with the necessary powers to adapt legislation in response to evolving online behaviours.
Learning from Australia’s Experience
As the UK looks to implement similar restrictions, Australia’s recent social media ban for under-16s serves as a case study. Enforced in December 2025, this ban requires major platforms, including TikTok and Instagram, to prevent young users from accessing their services or face hefty fines. The Australian government has adopted stringent measures, such as requiring identification verification and using age estimation technology to enforce these restrictions.
While some parents and child safety advocates have praised the ban, it has faced criticism from young users and civil liberties organisations. Concerns have been raised about privacy issues, the potential for children to misrepresent their ages, and the risk of pushing young users towards less regulated platforms.
Criticism and Challenges Ahead
The under-16s social media ban has sparked considerable debate. Young users have expressed disappointment over losing access to platforms they rely on for social interaction. In Australia, many took to social media to bid farewell to their accounts just before the ban took effect, highlighting the emotional toll of such restrictions.
Critics argue that while the intentions behind the ban are commendable, the execution may lead to unintended consequences. Major technology firms warn that such measures could hinder their ability to attract future users, as a significant percentage of young Australians were engaged with social media prior to the ban.
Why it Matters
The proposed social media restrictions for under-16s represent a pivotal moment in the UK’s approach to online safety. As digital platforms continue to evolve, the government’s proactive stance seeks to protect vulnerable users from potential harm. However, the challenge lies in balancing safety with freedom, ensuring that children are safeguarded without stifling their ability to connect and communicate in an increasingly digital world. This initiative could set a precedent for how nations regulate online spaces, highlighting the urgent need for legislative frameworks that adapt to the realities of modern technology.
