The UK government is preparing to introduce an Australian-style ban on social media use for children under 16 as early as this year, while also moving to close regulatory gaps surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer last month launched a formal consultation on restricting social media access for under-16s, signaling a tougher stance on online safety.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the impact of digital platforms and AI-driven tools on young users.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall highlighted what she described as a loophole in Britain’s Online Safety Act 2023, noting that the law does not currently cover children’s interactions with AI chatbots in the same way it regulates social media platforms.
Kendall said both she and the prime minister are concerned about the increasing influence of AI systems on children and teenagers.
“I am concerned about these AI chatbots — as is the prime minister — about the impact that’s having on children and young people,” she stated, warning that some minors are forming one-to-one relationships with AI systems that could pose safety risks.
The government is expected to outline its formal proposals before June.
The UK is not alone in seeking tighter controls. Several European nations — including France, Spain, Greece, Slovenia and Czech Republic — are also pushing for stricter regulations to shield children from online harm.
Beyond the proposed age-based social media ban, the government is considering several new safeguards based on public consultation feedback:
Granting investigators automatic powers to restrict and preserve a deceased child’s social media and online data to secure key evidence.
Limiting “stranger pairing” features on gaming consoles that allow children to connect with unknown individuals.
Blocking the sending and receiving of nude images on children’s devices.
The proposed changes are expected to be introduced as amendments to existing crime and child-protection legislation.
If enacted, the measures would represent one of the most significant overhauls of online safety laws in the UK, reflecting mounting global pressure to better protect children in the digital age.
