Summary
A report from the children's commissioner for England found that children regularly see online ads for weight loss products, despite such advertising being banned. The report calls for stricter regulations and suggests changes to the Online Safety Act to better protect kids. Tech firms are encouraged to be more accountable and to stop showing these ads to children.
Key Facts
- Children are frequently exposed to ads for weight loss products online.
- The advertising of these products to children is currently banned.
- The report was based on a survey of 2,000 children aged 13-17.
- The report suggests changes to the Online Safety Act to enhance children's protection online.
- Ofcom, the media regulator in the UK, enforces the Online Safety Act.
- There's a recommendation to amend Ofcom's Children's Code to better shield children from harmful content.
- The report calls for stronger regulation and enforcement against online sales of products restricted by age.
- A national consultation is considering further protective measures, like banning social media for children under 16.
