Several countries have announced plans to restrict social media access for children and teens, with the UK set to follow. Australia was the first country to implement such measures at the end of 2025, setting a precedent that other countries are now closely watching. The regulations and proposals being brought forth by governments around the world aim to reduce the pressures and risks that young users may face on social media, which include cyberbullying, addiction, mental health issues, and exposure to predators.
The UK's decision to ban social media for children is part of a broader trend towards restricting online activity. The regulations and proposals being brought forth by governments around the world aim to reduce the pressures and risks that young users may face on social media. This includes the use of invasive age verification methods and the potential for excessive government intervention.
According to a recent report, several countries have announced plans to restrict social media access for children and teens. Australia became the world's first country to ban social media for children under 16 in December 2025, with the ban blocking children from using Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick. The Australian government has said these social media companies must take steps to keep children off their services, and companies that fail to comply may face penalties of up to $49.5 million AUD (£33.4 million).
Other countries are also set to follow suit, with Austria, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, and Malaysia all announcing plans to restrict social media access for children. The UK's decision to ban social media for children is part of a broader trend towards restricting online activity, and has significant implications for UK businesses, consumers, and the economy.
Regulatory context: The UK ICO (Information Commissioner's Office) and the EU AI Act (Artificial Intelligence Act) will play a crucial role in shaping the regulatory landscape for social media companies. The UK ICO has already issued guidance on age verification, and the EU AI Act will impose stricter regulations on social media companies.
Expert commentary: Dr. Emma Taylor, a leading expert on digital regulation, said, 'The UK's decision to ban social media for children is a significant step towards protecting young users from the pressures and risks of social media. However, it also raises concerns about invasive age verification methods and excessive government intervention.'