Enact social media ban for teens, says terror watchdog

The UK should consider implementing an Australian-style social media ban to shield teenagers from online radicalisation, according to the government’s independent terrorism watchdog.

- NINA LLOYD

Jonathan Hall KC issued a stark warning, describing the internet as a “portal to horrific acts of violence” and cautioning that interactions with artificial intelligence, such as extremist chatbots, could lead young individuals “down the dial of death”.

Writing in The Telegraph, Mr Hall asserted that Britain could “take back control” from major tech companies through new policy initiatives. He highlighted Australia’s recent ban, which came into effect last month, as an example of “improving” legislation.

This measure aims to prevent children under 16 from accessing social media platforms, including TikTok, X, and Instagram. Companies found in breach of the regulations face substantial fines, potentially reaching up to AU$49.5m (£25.6m).

Critics have voiced privacy concerns and questioned whether the ban can be effectively enforced, while the country’s government says it is needed to protect young people from online harms.

Mr Hall said the ban was “partial and circumventable” but “has echoes of other improving social legislation such as compulsory seat belts and the smoking ban in pubs”.