UK considers banning under-16s from Vinted and eBay

Scope of the March 2027 social media ban

The United Kingdom will implement its social media ban for under-16s in March 2027. The restrictions target major social media and gaming platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, and X.

YouTube will be included in the ban, though YouTube Kids remains exempt. Roblox will face restrictions on its chat function rather than a total platform ban.

Concerns over grooming and messaging features

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is considering adding Vinted, eBay, Depop, and Facebook Marketplace to the under-16 social media ban. The government targets these platforms because messaging features allow strangers to groom or abuse children.

The Children’s Society reported that some users on these sites and apps solicit inappropriate photos from child users in exchange for money. The government intends to restrict platforms that facilitate social interaction and allow users to post material, including features that enable strangers to contact children.

A government source stated that an inclusive approach is required because many children under 16 face risks on these services. Nandy said the government is considering these additions to protect children from grooming risks involving money and gifts.

Legislative origins and timeline

Former Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the work on the under-16 social media ban on June 15, 2026. Starmer initiated the ban following a nationwide consultation that showed nine in 10 parents supported the measures.

The government announced in June 2026 that it would ban under-16s from accessing 10 of the largest social media platforms. Officials plan to pass legislation by the end of 2026, with implementation scheduled for the first months of 2027.

Future regulations and the Australian model

The government plans to mirror the Australian model, which became the first to bar under-16s from social media accounts in December 2025. This framework includes measures to address AI chatbots and enforce age verification.

Officials intend to bring virtual private networks under the scope of the ban. The rules will also cover gaming and livestreaming platforms to prevent strangers from contacting children.

This includes banning messaging features within gaming and streaming applications. The government plans to implement the ban in March 2027, with the first set of regulations expected before the end of 2026.

Upcoming details on prohibited platforms

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is expected to release details later in 2026 regarding which specific social media platforms will be prohibited. The Sunday Times reported that the government could extend the ban in the spring to include Vinted, Depop, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace.

Nandy is also expected to publish details later this year on other platforms, which will likely include Facebook, Instagram, and X.