Key facts
- The UK government is considering a ban on social media for individuals under 16.
- The proposed ban is modeled after Australia's 'Australia-plus' approach.
- Restrictions may include limiting features like chats with strangers and livestreaming for under-16s.
- Under-18s could be prohibited from accessing romantic or sexual AI chatbots.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce the policy soon.
- The government may need new legislation to enforce the ban.
The UK government is reportedly preparing to implement significant restrictions on social media access for individuals under 16, a policy framed as an 'Australia-plus' model. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce measures that would ban under-16s from accessing major social media applications, while also restricting features such as chats with adult strangers and livestreaming for this age group. Additionally, under-18s would be prohibited from using romantic or sexual AI chatbots.
The government's rationale for introducing these age limits stems from concerns about the potential harms of social media on young people. This move follows Australia's implementation of a similar ban.
A key challenge in implementing the ban lies in effective age verification. The UK's existing Online Safety Act, overseen by regulator Ofcom, already mandates age assurance measures for accessing certain content. However, it is unclear whether the new ban will require more specific verification methods beyond those currently permitted. Tech companies like Meta and Snapchat have reportedly offered input on how age verification should be conducted.