UK Bans Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram for Under-16s

The British government has announced a sweeping ban that will block children under the age of 16 from using major social media platforms like Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram.

The decision targets tech companies that officials claim have repeatedly failed to protect young users from online dangers. The upcoming rules will follow a model similar to Australia’s recent digital crackdown. Popular social media apps, including Facebook and X, will be legally required to block under-16s from creating or holding accounts.

Interestingly, the ban excludes dedicated messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal, meaning teenagers can still text their friends and family. However, the government is tackling the features that keep kids hooked on their phones, focusing on the mechanics of infinite scrolls and public broadcasts.

Beyond a basic age restriction, the UK plans to implement strict feature blocks. Under-16s will be entirely banned from live-streaming themselves, a feature often plagued by moderation issues. Additionally, online platforms and gaming sites must block strangers from directly messaging children. For 16- and 17-year-olds, these safety settings will be turned on by default so they do not face an abrupt change the moment they turn 16.

The government is also setting its sights on artificial intelligence. Under the new rules, AI “romantic companion” chatbots that simulate intimate relationships will enforce a strict minimum age of 18. Other AI chatbots will see heavy restrictions on adult or highly personal roleplay functionalities for anyone under 18.

Public support for the move is incredibly high. A massive national consultation drawing over 116,000 responses revealed that nine out of ten parents back a total social media ban for under-16s.

Surprisingly, young people are largely on board too, with two-thirds agreeing that kids under 16 should be restricted from at least some social media platforms.