Bans under-16s from using social media apps including TikTok and YouTube

Britain is moving to ban under-16s from using popular social media apps, a policy intended to shield young people from harmful content and excessive screen time. The plan, expected to take effect early next year, would block platforms including Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube for under-16s and extend to Instagram, Facebook and X. Reaction is mixed, with supporters praising the safety measure and critics warning a blanket ban may push teens toward unregulated spaces. YouTube and Meta argued the rule could curb parental controls and push kids to riskier services. Prime Minister Keir Starmer framed the policy as essential to children’s happiness and protection.