UK Considers Age Restriction on Social Media

Government Guidance

The government has stopped short of banning smartphones in schools but has issued guidance for effective smartphone-free restrictions. However, some health professionals are concerned about the impact of smartphones on children and want stricter controls.

Key Points

• Peter Kyle wants to see evidence that tech firms deliver suitable age verification and prioritize safety.

• Social media platforms may face significant fines if they do not comply with the Online Safety Act (OSA).

• Some health professionals are concerned about smartphone use among children and want stricter controls.

Overview

Key Points

• The government wants to see evidence that tech firms are delivering suitable age verification for users.

• Tech firms may face significant fines if they do not comply with the Online Safety Act (OSA).

• Some suggest that the use of smartphones by young people should also be more tightly controlled.

• Parliament is considering a private members bill to examine how to make children’s digital lives safer.

Background

The idea of restricting social media for young people has gained attention after Australia’s government announced plans to ban children under 16 from social media. Peter Kyle stated that “everything is on the table” with him, but emphasized the need for more evidence before making a decision.

Quotes

• “I just want to make sure that Ofcom knows that government expects them to be used.”

— Peter Kyle

• “The government needs to think bigger: this is a problem that requires a cultural shift, and also requires legislation to be one step ahead of, rather than behind, technology.”

— Iona Silverman

Related Topics

• Social media

• Online Safety Act (OSA)

• Smartphone use among young people