UK Announces Social Media Ban For Kids Under 16 Years

The United Kingdom has unveiled a major policy shift as it moves to ban social media use for children under 16. The government says the decision follows growing evidence linking social media to anxiety, depression, bullying and exposure to harmful content among young people.

The ban, expected to take effect in early 2027 after legislation is passed, will apply to major platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube and X. 

Children will be blocked from creating accounts, and existing accounts may be restricted or removed depending on final implementation rules. Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal are not included.

The UK is adopting a model similar to Australia’s, which already enforces an under‑16 ban. 

Additional measures being considered include blocking livestreaming for minors, limiting contact with strangers, introducing overnight curfews, and adding breaks to endless scrolling for under‑18s.
The government says nine out of ten parents support the move, calling it a necessary step to protect children and restore balance to their digital lives.