tech

UK announces plan to ban social media for children under 16

Updated on: June 15, 2026 / 9:24 AM EDT / CBS News

UK announces plan to ban social media for children under 16

TL;DR

  • The UK plans to ban social media access for children under 16, restricting harmful functions and gaming sites.
  • The proposed legislation aims to hold tech companies accountable with potential fines for non-compliance.
  • Australia's earlier ban for under-16s has faced difficulties in enforcement, with many children bypassing age restrictions.
  • The US Embassy in London expressed concern over the age-gating approach, advocating for alternative protection methods and free speech preservation.
  • British parents reportedly overwhelmingly support the proposed ban.
  • A jury in Los Angeles found Meta and YouTube liable for creating products that led to harmful and addictive behavior in young users.
  • The town of Greystones, Ireland, has implemented a successful community initiative to raise children without smartphones.
  • Greystones' 'It Takes a Village' initiative encourages parental commitment to delaying smartphone access and provides alternative activities for children.
  • Teachers in Greystones report improved student focus and well-being since the initiative's implementation.
  • Children in Greystones express positive feedback on increased social interaction and preference for outdoor activities.