Default overnight curfews and addictive features to be switched off automatically to protect 16 and 17-year-olds on social media Nighttime curfews to be set by default and features that get teens hooked onto social media to be
automatically switched off for 16- and 17-year-olds Measures look to protect the next generation, ensuring that when kids turn 16, they don't face a cliff edge of being exposed to the most addictive features online. Features that
can keep users scrolling for longer - such as videos that automatically play one after another and feeds that continually serve up personalised content - will also be switched off by default for older teenagers. The measures
follow a first-of-its-kind government pilot involving more than 300 teenagers and parents across the UK, with families reporting that overnight curfews quickly became part of their routine and helped improve sleep and concentration.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said:Â Our consultation provided a clear message from parents and teenagers alike - even as young people gain greater independence at 16, they should still be
protected from the most addictive online features that can have a harmful impact on their wellbeing. These measures will be crucial in helping young people get the sleep they need, focus on school and college, and spend more
quality time with family and friends, all of which are fundamental to building a happy, healthy and fulfilling adult life.
Alongside these protections, the government will publish new guidance for children,
parents and guardians on how to use AI safely and confidently by expanding the Kids Online Safety Hub. The first set of regulations on the social media restrictions will be laid before Parliament by the end of this year, with
measures expected to come into force in spring 2027, alongside robust implementation and enforcement.
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