The UK Government has announced plans to introduce new online safety measures aimed at protecting children from harmful online experiences, including a ban on social media use for under-16s and restrictions on high-risk online features for young people.
The measures, outlined in a government fact sheet published by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, are expected to be implemented from Spring 2027 following the introduction of regulations later this year.
Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Under the proposed changes, children under the age of 16 will no longer be permitted to access certain social media platforms. The Government states that the approach will follow a similar model to that adopted in Australia, covering major social media services while excluding messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Signal.
The Government says the changes are designed to address the online platforms and features that present the greatest risks to children and young people.
Restrictions on High-Risk Features
Alongside the social media ban, additional safeguards will be introduced across other online services, including gaming platforms.
The following features will be restricted for children:
- Livestreaming services
- Communication from strangers to children
- Similar high-risk online interactions that may expose children to harm
The restrictions will apply to under-16s, while for 16 and 17-year-olds these features will be switched off by default.
Strong Public Support for Change
The announcement follows a national consultation conducted between March and May 2026. According to the Government, the consultation found strong public backing for increased protections online, with nine in ten parents supporting a social media ban for under-16s. The consultation also found that two-thirds of young people agreed that under-16s should not be allowed to use at least some social media platforms.
Protecting Children While Maintaining Access
The Government emphasises that children will continue to be able to access the internet for educational purposes, news, gaming and communication with friends and family through approved services. The intention, it says, is to reduce harm, improve wellbeing and support a healthier childhood.
Parents and children are not required to take any action at this stage, with further information expected ahead of the planned implementation in 2027.
Age Verification Requirements
The new rules will be supported by strengthened age assurance measures. The Government has indicated that many adults may not need to complete additional checks if they already have long-standing accounts, connected credit cards, or accounts linked to previously age-verified email addresses. Some users may also have already completed verification under existing Online Safety Act requirements.
Ofcom is expected to publish further guidance on acceptable methods of age assurance, with the Government stating that any system should be accurate, robust, reliable and fair.
Looking Ahead
The first regulations are expected to be laid before Parliament by the end of 2026, with implementation targeted for Spring 2027. If introduced as planned, the measures will represent one of the most significant changes to children's online access and protections in the UK to date.
Source: GOV.uk
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