UK Government Considers Social Media Restrictions for Under-16s

The UK government, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, is contemplating potential restrictions on social media access for teenagers below the age of 16 in a bid to safeguard them from online harm. 

Despite the implementation of the Online Safety Act, mandating social media platforms to shield minors from harmful content or face fines up to 10% of global revenue, the government is exploring additional measures.

According to reports, a consultation will be initiated in the coming year to investigate the risks faced by children using social media. While sources suggest the possibility of social media bans for those under 16, a government spokesperson downplayed such claims, emphasizing the focus on empowering parents rather than imposing strict regulations.

The Molly Rose Foundation, established by the family of Molly Russell, who tragically took her own life at 14 after encountering harmful content on Instagram and Pinterest,



emphasized the need to enhance the powers of the communications watchdog, Ofcom, in any regulatory review.

Andy Burrows, an adviser to the foundation, highlighted the necessity for further measures to protect children online but urged strengthening the regulator’s authority to mitigate avoidable dangers on platforms. Cross-bench peer Beeban Kidron, a prominent advocate for children’s online safety, expressed concern about excluding children from digital spaces instead of designing platforms that support their well-being.

While the prime minister's spokesperson did not provide specific details on the proposed measures, the government is broadly examining the issue of ensuring online safety for children. Charities and campaigners, advocating for robust online safety regulations since 2017, welcomed the passage of the Online Safety Act but emphasized the continued need for comprehensive measures.