Translated with AI
UK authorities may introduce a ban on social media use for teenagers under 16 as early as 2026. This was reported on February 16 by The Times newspaper, citing sources in the British government.
"Under powers announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer as part of efforts to stabilise his position, children could be banned from social media as early as this year," a source told the publication.
According to the newspaper, the restrictions could come into effect this summer after public consultations are completed. The measures are expected to affect not only social media but also access to chatbots. Furthermore, the Cabinet of Ministers intends to require internet platforms to set time limits on how much time minors spend on services with infinite scrolling.
According to the publication, the government will begin urgent work to amend the "Law on Internet Safety." The authorities also intend to promptly close the legal loophole and require all providers of artificial intelligence chatbots to comply with requirements for combating illegal content under current legislation.
