UK considers banning under-16s from shopping apps

The UK government, which is working to introduce a social media ban for children under 16, is now preparing to restrict their access to shopping websites and apps because of their messaging features.

According to a report in The Times, Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, has launched an initiative to ban children under 16 from using online shopping platforms and apps, including eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Vinted and Depop, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency.

The proposed ban is reportedly motivated by concerns that messaging features on these platforms expose children to the risk of exploitation by strangers.

A government source told the newspaper: "There is a great deal of evidence showing that many children under 16 are accessing these services and exposing themselves to risks. We need to take a comprehensive approach to protecting children online."

The UK-based children's charity The Children's Society also reported that some users on these platforms ask children for inappropriate photos in exchange for money.

Former Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on June 15 that work had begun on plans to ban social media use among under-16s. He said the government aimed to pass the legislation through Parliament by the end of the year.

Starmer said the ban was expected to come into force in the early months of the following year.

"All parents can see it with their own eyes. Social media is making children unhappy. It makes it easier for bullies to harm and exploit children, and it is also damaging their mental health. Children are exposed to dangerous content because it attracts attention," he said.

Starmer also indicated that the proposed restrictions could extend beyond social media platforms to messaging features on gaming and streaming apps. He added that banning VPN services was also being considered.

Photo: Chat GPT