The initiative is being pursued by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration amid rising concern about digital risks faced by young users. The proposed restrictions mirror measures already adopted in Australia and are being studied by several European nations. Policymakers argue that clearer rules are needed as online platforms and AI systems become more integrated into children’s daily lives.
One trigger for the review was controversy surrounding Grok, an artificial-intelligence chatbot linked to entrepreneur Elon Musk, after reports that it generated sexualised images without consent. The incident highlighted regulatory gaps in Britain’s Online Safety Act 2023, which currently does not fully cover private one-to-one interactions between users and AI systems unless content is shared publicly.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said officials are particularly concerned about children forming close relationships with AI chatbots not designed with child-safety safeguards. She indicated the government intends to amend existing laws to close those loopholes and extend protections.
Alongside the potential social media ban, authorities are consulting on additional measures aimed at protecting minors online. These include automatic preservation of digital data if a child dies to assist investigations, restrictions on “stranger pairing” features in gaming platforms, and stronger controls to prevent the exchange of explicit images involving minors. Technology companies operating in Britain would be required to comply with any new rules.
The proposals, however, have sparked debate over enforcement and privacy. Some analysts warn that strict bans could drive teenagers toward unregulated platforms or tools such as virtual private networks that can bypass age restrictions. Officials acknowledge such challenges and say defining what qualifies as “social media” will be essential before any law takes effect.
If implemented, the measures would place Britain among a growing group of countries seeking tougher oversight of digital platforms and AI technologies, reflecting a global shift toward stricter child-safety standards online.
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