UK to ban social media for under-16s starting next year, Starmer announces
By
Sylvia Hui, Brian Melley
Slow-proofed and worth the wait. Worth its weight in flour.
Summary
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a ban on social media use for children under 16, targeting platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube, set to take effect early next year. The move aligns with global efforts to tighten online safety for children, with similar legislation in Australia, Canada, Brazil, and Indonesia. Starmer acknowledged potential bypass attempts but emphasized prioritizing children's safety. Tech companies including YouTube and Meta warned that blanket restrictions could drive children to unregulated online spaces.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledBritain will ban children aged under 16 from using a range of social media apps, including Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube, to protect them from harmful content and excessive screen time.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Monday the ban, which is expected to take effect early next year, makes the U.K. part of a growing global movement to tighten online safety for children.
Starmer acknowledges that some teens might bypass the ban but emphasizes the importance of children's safety and happiness.
YouTube and Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, warned that a blanket social media restriction could push kids into unregulated online spaces.
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