The UK government has announced a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16, with the new rules set to take effect in early 2027 as part of a broader effort to improve online safety for young people.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said keeping children off social media was the most effective way to protect them online.

The ban is expected to apply to major platforms including TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X, although the government has yet to publish a final list.

Officials said the restrictions would target platforms designed for social interaction and user-generated content. Features such as livestreaming and contact with strangers will also face tighter controls.

Messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal will not be included in the ban. YouTube Kids will also remain exempt.

The government is considering additional measures for users under 18, including overnight social media curfews and mandatory breaks to limit infinite scrolling.

Further details are expected next month.

AI-powered “romantic companion” chatbots will be restricted to users aged 18 and above, while other AI chatbot services will be required to limit intimate or adult-oriented features for minors.

The government plans to pass the necessary regulations before Christmas, allowing the restrictions to be implemented by spring 2027.

To enforce the rules, social media companies will be required to introduce robust age-verification systems, which could include facial age estimation technology or identity checks.

Media regulator Ofcom has been tasked with identifying the most effective verification methods.

The announcement follows a public consultation that received more than 116,000 responses.

The move has been welcomed by some bereaved families who have campaigned for stronger online protections for children.

However, critics argue that blanket bans could limit young people’s access to online communities and information.

Several social media companies have also opposed the proposal, warning that restrictions could push teenagers towards unregulated platforms with fewer safety measures.

The UK joins a growing number of countries considering or implementing age-based social media restrictions.

Australia introduced a similar ban in 2025, while countries including France, Canada, Norway, Denmark and Indonesia are pursuing comparable measures.