UK to ban under-16s from ‘high risk’ social media apps
Summary
The UK government plans to ban children under 16 from using certain "high-risk" social media apps and restrict some features on safer platforms to protect young users. The ban also includes forbidding those under 18 from using romantic or sexual AI chatbots, and the government will announce which apps are affected soon.Key Facts
- Children under 16 will be banned from accessing some social media apps considered "high-risk."
- Under-18s will not be allowed to use romantic or sexual AI chatbots.
- Safer social media platforms will have restrictions like no disappearing messages, no chatting with adult strangers, and no livestreaming for under-16s.
- The government received over 116,000 responses to its online safety consultation, with 90% of parents supporting an under-16 ban.
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for strong action based on the consultation results.
- Some sources warn the ban could face legal challenges (judicial reviews) over whether the government’s decisions are fair or legal.
- Similar bans are already in place in countries like Australia, where many popular apps are restricted for under-16s.
- Government officials state the plans are thoroughly prepared and aim to protect children against the risks of addictive or harmful content online.
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