UK Launches Public Consultation on Social Media Ban for Under-16s

UK Launches Public Consultation on Social Media Ban for Under-16s

The United Kingdom government has officially launched a public consultation to overhaul online safety laws for children and adolescents. Following in the footsteps of Australia, UK policymakers are considering a stringent nationwide ban on social media usage for children under the age of 16.

Proposed Regulatory Framework

The consultation explores several key strategies aimed at protecting the mental health and well-being of the younger generation:

• Strict Age Limits: Implementing a total ban on social media access for specific age groups.

• Parental Consent Exceptions: Exploring a "middle-ground" where access may be granted for certain ages, provided there is verified parental approval.

• Banning Addictive Features: Prohibiting platforms from using "hook" mechanics, such as Snapchat Streaks or Infinite Scrolling, which are designed to keep minors glued to their screens.

• Robust Age Verification: Developing and mandating reliable technologies to accurately verify a user’s age before they can create an account.

• National School Phone Ban: Establishing a legal framework to prohibit mobile phone usage within school premises to minimize distractions and cyberbullying.

The government is currently engaging with educators, child safety advocates, and technology firms to refine these proposals into a formal bill.

Australia was the first country to pass legislation banning children under 16 from using social media (without exception for parental consent), a model the UK is now adopting. However, debate surrounds "children's rights" and the restriction of access to essential information.

The biggest challenge is "age assurance," which currently utilizes various technologies such as AI facial recognition (face estimation) or linking to passport/identity databases. Privacy advocates remain concerned about data breaches.

Neuroscience research indicates that excessive screen swiping impacts the developing dopamine loop in children's brains, leading to impulse control and an increased risk of ADHD.

The UK already had an Online Safety Act, but this new measure represents a shift from "allowing platforms to self-regulate" to a full-blown "legal ban." 

 

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