What restrictions are planned for teens in the UK?

Teens aged 16-17 will face nighttime curfews on social media and bans on addictive features like infinite scroll. Kids under 16 will be blocked entirely from platforms like TikTok* and YouTube.

Can the new restrictions be disabled?

Yes, teens aged 16-17 can disable temporary restrictions, but parental or guardian consent is required.

Which platforms will be banned for children under 16?

Popular social networks and video platforms, including TikTok*, YouTube, Instagram*, and others with high addiction risks, will face a full ban.

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Security

UK to Introduce Curfew for Teen Social Media Use

July 15, 2026

Photo: Wired

Quick answer

The UK is developing a bill to restrict nighttime social media access for 16-17-year-olds and ban addictive app features, while fully blocking platforms like TikTok* and YouTube for under-16s.

The UK government has announced plans to introduce strict restrictions on social media use for teenagers. Under the proposed legislation, users aged 16-17 will face a curfew limiting platform access during nighttime hours. Additionally, app developers must remove or deactivate features that foster dependency, such as infinite scroll, autoplay videos, and intrusive notifications.

For children under 16, access to social networks and video platforms, including TikTok*, YouTube, and Instagram*, will be fully blocked, with no exceptions. However, teens over 16 can disable these restrictions, provided they obtain consent from parents or legal guardians.

The initiative aims to mitigate the negative impact of social media on youth mental health. Research indicates excessive platform use increases risks of anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. UK authorities emphasize that these measures are not an outright ban but seek to create a safer digital environment for the next generation.

* Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other Meta services are owned by Meta Platforms Inc., whose activities are recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation.

Common questions

What restrictions are planned for teens in the UK?: Teens aged 16-17 will face nighttime curfews on social media and bans on addictive features like infinite scroll. Kids under 16 will be blocked entirely from platforms like TikTok* and YouTube.
Can the new restrictions be disabled?: Yes, teens aged 16-17 can disable temporary restrictions, but parental or guardian consent is required.
Which platforms will be banned for children under 16?: Popular social networks and video platforms, including TikTok*, YouTube, Instagram*, and others with high addiction risks, will face a full ban.

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