UK: planning social media restrictions for 16- and 17-year-olds

The UK government is planning new social media restrictions for 16- and 17-year-olds, including a default overnight curfew that would block access to platforms between midnight and 6 a.m. The measure, which users will be able to disable, is part of a broader package of online safety rules expected to take effect in 2027.

Disabling addictive platform features

The proposals also include disabling addictive platform features by default for older teenagers, such as autoplay videos and personalized recommendation feeds, while allowing users to opt back in. The government says the measures are designed to protect teenagers as they transition into adulthood and to promote healthier online habits.

The planned rules will complement a separate ban on children under 16 using major social media platforms, which is expected to be introduced in spring 2027. The government is also considering additional AI safeguards for minors, including chatbot usage limits and stricter oversight of AI services that provide potentially harmful or misleading advice.

Source: https://www.wired.com/story/the-uk-is-planning-a-social-media-curfew-for-16-and-17-year-olds/