By Dennis Udoma with Agency Report
The United Kingdom is weighing sweeping new restrictions that could bar children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms.
The move is part of a major policy shift aimed at strengthening online safety and tackling the growing mental health crisis among young people.
According to Cyber Security News, the proposed measures would introduce tougher age-verification systems, national screen-time guidelines, and stricter controls on smartphone use in schools.
The plan, still under review, is being shaped by the experience of Australia, where similar policies led to the deactivation of 4.7 million social media accounts belonging to minors.
UK government officials say the move is part of a broader effort to shield children from harmful online content, cyberbullying, exploitation, and excessive screen exposure.
“We are exploring a range of measures to ensure that the digital environment is safer for young people,” a government spokesperson said, adding that the welfare of children remains a top priority.
The proposal includes; the development of advanced age-verification technology to prevent underage users from creating or maintaining social media accounts.
Authorities are also considering nationwide screen-time limits and the introduction of phone curfews within schools to reduce distractions and curb digital dependency.
Supporters of the policy argue that social media has contributed to rising cases of anxiety, depression, and poor concentration among children and teenagers.
They believe that stricter regulation will help restore balance and promote healthier offline lifestyles.
However, the proposed ban has sparked debate among digital rights advocates and education experts.
Critics warn that such restrictions could amount to censorship, limit access to important information, and isolate young people who rely on online platforms for learning, social connection, and self-expression.
Despite the concerns, UK officials insist that consultations are ongoing and that any final decision will aim to balance child protection with freedom of expression.
If adopted, the policy would place the UK among the first major Western nations to impose age-based social media bans, signaling a significant shift in how governments regulate digital platforms in the interest of child safety.
