UK announces social media ban for under-16s

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a ban on social media for under-16s, along with restrictions on livestreaming and stranger communication tools, citing child safety. The government also plans to ban AI romantic companion chatbots for under-18s and consider curfews and scrolling breaks for minors.

LONDON - Keir Starmer said Monday the UK will ban social media for under-16s. Livestreaming and tools which allow users to communicate with strangers will also be blocked for under-16s, and restricted by default for 17 year-olds, the U.K. prime minister said. Starmer told a Downing Street press conference "a full ban is the right choice," adding he is not "prepared to compromise on the safety and happiness of our children." In an accompanying statement https://www.gov.uk/government/news/social-media-to-be-banned-for-under-16s-in-landmark-government-move-to-givekids-their-childhood-back , the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology said AI "romantic companion" chatbots that simulate sexual or romantic relationships will also be banned for use by under-18s. The U.K. government will look "in more detail" at overnight curfews and breaks in infinite scrolling for under-18s, and will set out its plans in July, DSIT added.