Story perspectives

UK Launches Consultation on Children's Online Safety Measures

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

UK government launched a three-month consultation on children's online safety, titled Growing up in the online world.
It will consider measures such as banning under-16s from social media, overnight curfews, and restricting infinite scrolling.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall emphasized parental guidance and community involvement.
The consultation closes on May 26, 2026, with a government response planned in the summer.
Live pilots will test the impact of proposed measures on teenagers.

History

Historical Context

The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), enacted in 1996, mandated parental consent for collecting data from children under 13, influencing major tech companies. Recent UK consultations on children's online safety reflect COPPA's legacy, aiming to protect minors from social media risks. This ongoing evolution in regulations highlights the global commitment to safeguarding children's digital experiences amid rising online threats.

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Story summary

UK government launched a three-month consultation on children's online safety, titled Growing up in the online world.
It will consider measures such as banning under-16s from social media, overnight curfews, and restricting infinite scrolling.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall emphasized parental guidance and community involvement.
The consultation closes on May 26, 2026, with a government response planned in the summer.
Live pilots will test the impact of proposed measures on teenagers.

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