UK to Ban Social Media for Under-16s, With Sweeping Restrictions for All Teens

From CNET: The UK is following in the footsteps of Australia and banning all children under the age of 16 from social media. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the ban on Monday, saying that he'll introduce legislation into Parliament before Christmas, with protections expected to come into force by spring 2027.

The ban as designed supported by 9 out of 10 British parents, according to a survey of more than 116,000 people carried out by the government. It's designed to allow less time for scrolling and more time for play, according to the UK government announcement.

"Parents want to keep their kids safe and happy, but the online world has made that harder than ever," Starmer said in a statement. "I've heard firsthand from families crying out for change, and we will do right by them."

The ban will affect social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Snap and X. It's not designed to stop under-16s from using messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal.

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