UK Government Plans to Restrict Addictive Social Media Features for Under-16s

1-Minute Brief

Concerns over online abuse and child safety have prompted new proposals to regulate social media use among UK youth.

Key Facts

• The UK government is expected to stop short of a full social media ban for under-16s, instead targeting addictive platform features.
• The government's consultation on tackling social media harms, titled 'Growing Up In The Online World,' has concluded.
• Officials have reviewed Australia's policy, which includes a complete ban for under-16s, as part of their considerations.
• Campaigners are urging the government to implement child internet safety laws without delay.
• A Barnardo’s poll of 4,000 young people found nearly one in five UK girls receive persistent, unwanted images online.

What Happened

The UK government is developing new regulations aimed at protecting children online, focusing on restricting addictive social media features rather than imposing a full ban for under-16s.

Why It Matters

The move follows growing concern over online abuse, with reports highlighting the prevalence of unwanted images and harassment among young people. The policy aims to address safety while balancing access to digital platforms.

What's Next

The government is expected to announce detailed proposals following the consultation. Advocacy groups continue to press for swift legislative action on child internet safety.