06/17/2026
The UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer says banning social media will give kids their childhood back.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the sweeping social media ban in London on Monday, June 15, 2026. The restriction applies to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, while excluding messaging apps.
Starmer stated the legislation will "give kids their childhood back" and protect their mental health. The new rules also block under-16s from livestreaming or talking to strangers on gaming sites. Tech companies must enforce the age limits.
Platforms that fail to exclude underage users will face massive financial penalties. The UK government reported that nine out of 10 parents supported the limit in a national consultation.