UK social media ban could impact video game platforms
The UK government is considering extending potential restrictions for children’s access to social media to video game platforms. Online Safety Minister Kanishka Narayan told The Times that gaming platform regulations could be part of broader child safety measures being considered by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration.
Narayan suggested that a blanket ban preventing children from communicating with strangers on gaming platforms could be implemented as part of the wider social media restrictions under review. The initiative would likely mirror Australia’s social media ban for under-16s, though the UK government may opt for less restrictive measures such as limiting features like autoplay, infinite scrolling, and location sharing.
While Narayan did not specify which platforms or games would be targeted, he noted that gaming platform activity would be a significant consideration. Popular titles including Roblox, Fortnite, and Minecraft—which attract large child audiences—are likely to be affected by any such regulations.
The proposed restrictions reflect growing international concern about child safety in online spaces. Gaming platforms have become increasingly under scrutiny due to their social features that allow interactions with strangers, a concern that has motivated the UK government to explore comprehensive online safety measures for minors.