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UK to Ban Social Media for Under-16s in Sweeping Child Safety Move

15 June 2026 08:50

The UK will ban children under 16 from social media apps like Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube starting early next year, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced. - The ban targets platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and X, but exempts YouTube Kids and messaging apps.

- Enforcement will focus on tech companies with fines, not children. - Critics warn of enforcement difficulties and risk of pushing kids to unregulated spaces.

- The US has expressed concerns over free speech and impacts on American tech companies.

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