UK social media ban could mean more users must prove age online

Ofcom has published a rapid assessment on how social media platforms could prove users are 16 or older before a UK ban for under-16s takes effect in March 2027. The regulator says photo ID matching, banking-based checks, digital ID services and facial age estimation are possible methods. It also says many adults with existing accounts may need to undergo age verification.

How age checks could work

In June 2025, the UK government announced plans to ban teenagers under 16 from accessing social media. Following Australia's social media ban, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube and some gaming or virtual-world sites would be blocked for under-16s. Ofcom says there are four methods of effectively checking someone's age: photo ID matching, banking-based checks, digital ID services and facial age estimation. For existing accounts, platforms can use information they already have to determine whether someone meets the minimum age requirement. However, Ofcom says many adults will be required to undergo age verification if they wish to continue using their social media account.

Privacy concerns and bypass risks

Ofcom Chief Executive Melanie Dawes says motivated children may seek ways to bypass the restrictions, comparing the issue to alcohol laws that cannot completely eradicate underage drinking. Privacy group Big Brother Watch calls the plan a national ID system by the back door and an Orwellian assault on free speech and privacy. The Information Commissioner's Office welcomes the assessment, but says age assurance must keep people's personal information safe and allow them to exercise information rights.

App stores and rollout

In a separate report, Ofcom says app stores could play an important role in shaping children's online experiences because they are part of a larger online ecosystem. It says app stores could make greater use of highly effective age assurance to better protect children online. The UK social media ban for under-16s will come into force in March 2027.

Sources: Cybernews