The UK government has announced plans to ban social media from children under 16. Prime Minister Kier Starmer intends to enact the legislation before the end of the year, so that it will come into effect by spring 2027. Platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, X, and Snapchat will be restricted, along with possibly Twitch. In addition to a blanket ban, the authorities will block dangerous features such as live streaming and communication with strangers for all users under 16 years old on any online platform. Also considered is the introduction of "curfew" and pauses in endless scrolling for persons under 18.

Starmer’s initiative, which he called a "line in the sand," aims to protect children after tech giants failed to provide security on their own. Although 9 out of 10 parents supported the measure, it was criticized. The Molly Rose Foundation has said that the ban does not address fundamental security concerns, and YouTube officials have warned that blanket restrictions could push teenagers to use more dangerous and anonymous services. Britain is following the example of Australia, which introduced a similar ban last year, and ahead of several other countries considering such initiatives.