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arstechnica.com 22 hours ago URGENCY: 7/10

UK to Ban Social Media for Kids Under 16

The UK government plans to ban social media for children under 16, aiming to protect their childhood. This groundbreaking move includes age verification and restrictions on harmful online interactions.

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UK to Ban Social Media for Kids Under 16

Major Changes to Online Safety for Kids

In a historic announcement, the UK government revealed plans to ban social media for all children under the age of 16, set to take effect in spring 2027. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that this initiative aims to give children their childhood back by implementing strict regulations on platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram.

In addition to the social media ban, the government is considering further measures, including:

  • Restrictions on livestreaming and stranger communication for under-16s.
  • Potential overnight curfews for minors.
  • Breaks in infinite scrolling for users under 18.
These regulations will also extend to AI chatbots, which will be required to enforce a minimum age of 18 for intimate functionalities. The Communications regulator, Ofcom, will oversee the implementation of age verification systems to ensure compliance with these new rules, aiming for a safer online environment for children.
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