UK to implement social media ban for under-16s in 2027

The UK government is set to implement a ban on social media for children under the age of 16, with regulations scheduled to roll out in Spring 2027. This decision follows a large-scale national consultation where 90% of parents and two-thirds of young people supported the restrictions.

The ban will target major platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube, and X. However, messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal will remain exempt. Additionally, the government plans to overhaul high-risk features on gaming platforms, introducing stricter age-checking requirements and restrictions on livestreaming and contact from strangers to enhance child safety.