Summary
Two parents whose children died after exposure to harmful social media content worry that delays in banning social media for under-16s might harm more kids. The UK House of Lords has voted for this ban, and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall is starting a review to examine its potential impacts. Australia already has a similar ban, and countries around the world are observing its effects.
Key Facts
- The UK House of Lords voted to ban social media use for children under 16, following a model set by Australia.
- Bereaved mothers expressed concerns about delays in implementing the ban, fearing more children could be harmed.
- The UK government will conduct a three-month consultation to evaluate the proposed social media ban.
- Parents have filed lawsuits in the US against social media companies after their children's deaths linked to online challenges.
- Ofcom, the UK online safety regulator, began new rules last year and is investigating over 90 platforms for compliance.
- Australia blocks users under 16 from having social media accounts, aimed at protecting children from harmful online content.
- Meta and other companies accept more actions are needed but question if an outright ban is the solution.
- 97% of 12-year-olds own smartphones, increasing the need for careful online safety measures.
