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UK to restrict under-16s' social media access by default from 2027
🇭🇺 Hungary /Culture & Society

UK to restrict under-16s' social media access by default from 2027

From Magyar Nemzet · () Hungarian

Translated from Hungarian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • The UK government plans to restrict social media access for individuals under 16 by default, starting in spring 2027.
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the government must intervene as tech companies failed to protect children online.
  • Approximately 90% of parents surveyed supported the introduction of a 16-year-old age limit.

The UK government is set to implement new regulations that will prevent individuals under 16 from accessing social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, and X by default. This policy is scheduled to take effect in the spring of 2027.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the government's decision, asserting that state intervention is necessary due to the perceived failure of major technology companies to adequately safeguard children from the dangers present in the online environment. This move reflects growing concerns about the impact of social media on young users.

the time has come for the state to intervene

— Keir StarmerPrime Minister Keir Starmer explained the rationale behind the government's decision to restrict social media access for minors.

Data from a government consultation indicated significant public backing for the proposed age restriction. Nearly 90% of parents who participated in the consultation expressed support for establishing a 16-year-old age limit for social media access. This widespread parental approval is a key factor driving the government's policy.

nearly 90 percent of parents supported the introduction of a 16-year-old age limit

— UK government dataGovernment data from a consultation highlighted the level of parental support for the proposed age restriction.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Magyar Nemzet in Hungarian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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