Under-16 Social Media Ban (Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 regulations)
Under-16 Social Media Ban (Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 regulations) in United Kingdom: pending, effective Spring 2027 (expected). Applies to User-to-user platforms whose purpose is social interaction with algorithmic feeds; functional restrictions apply to a wider range of services. Ag
Key facts
| Jurisdiction | United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Category | International |
| Status | pending |
| Effective date | Spring 2027 (expected) |
| Age range | Under 16 |
| Applies to | User-to-user platforms whose purpose is social interaction with algorithmic feeds; functional restrictions apply to a wider range of services |
Key requirements
- Ban on social media accounts for under-16s on covered platforms
- Blocks on harmful functions for under-16s beyond the ban: livestreaming and stranger contact features
- Highly effective age assurance to verify users are over 16
- Ofcom enforcement, with funding for expanded responsibilities
Notes
Announced June 15, 2026 after the "Growing up in the online world" consultation (March 2–May 26, 2026; 116,211 responses). First regulations to be laid before Parliament by end of 2026 using powers in the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026. Ofcom asked to deliver a rapid study on over-16 age assurance by October 2026.
Frequently asked
What does Under-16 Social Media Ban (Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 regulations) require?
Ban on social media accounts for under-16s on covered platforms Blocks on harmful functions for under-16s beyond the ban: livestreaming and stranger contact features Highly effective age assurance to verify users are over 16 Ofcom enforcement, with funding for expanded responsibilities
Who must comply with Under-16 Social Media Ban (Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 regulations) in United Kingdom?
User-to-user platforms whose purpose is social interaction with algorithmic feeds; functional restrictions apply to a wider range of services
When does Under-16 Social Media Ban (Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 regulations) take effect and what is its status?
Effective Spring 2027 (expected). Current status: pending. Announced June 15, 2026 after the "Growing up in the online world" consultation (March 2–May 26, 2026; 116,211 responses). First regulations to be laid before Parliament by end of 2026 using powers in the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026. Ofcom asked to deliver a rapid study on over-16 age assurance by October 2026.
Related laws
| Law | Jurisdiction | Category | Status | Effective |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Media Minimum Age Law | Australia | International | active | December 10, 2025 |
| Online Safety Act — Age Verification Requirements | United Kingdom | International | active | July 25, 2025 |
| Online Safety Act — Child Safety Regime | United Kingdom | International | active | July 25, 2025 |
| Digital Services Act — Guidelines on Protecting Minors | European Union | International | active | July 14, 2025 |
| EU Digital Minimum Age & Mandatory Age Assurance Initiative | European Union | International | pending | TBD (Commission proposal expected; Digital Fairness Act 2026) |
| GDPR — Children's Consent Requirements | European Union | International | active | May 25, 2018 |
| Under-15 Social Media Ban (2026 Law) | France | International | blocked | N/A (struck down August 14, 2026) |
| Organic Law for the Protection of Minors in Digital Environments | Spain | International | pending | TBD (parliamentary approval expected autumn 2026) |
Put it into practice
- Generate the policy: COPPA policy generator (generatepolicy.com)
- Buy the policy pack: Privacy Program Bundle (cyberpolicy.shop)
- Build it yourself: 2026 US Privacy Program Workbook (ciso.diy)