The UK government is planning to introduce a default overnight social media curfew for teenagers aged 16 and 17, as per media reports.
Under the proposal, social media apps would automatically block access between midnight and 6 a.m. Teenagers could continue using the apps during those hours only if they change the default setting.
The proposed rules would also switch off features designed to encourage endless scrolling by default. The move follows an earlier proposal to ban social media use for children under the age of 16.
The government said the measures are aimed at helping young people get enough sleep, focus on their studies and spend more time with family and friends. Technology companies would be required to introduce the new settings and strengthen age verification systems. Companies that fail to comply could face regulatory action.
The first set of regulations is expected to be presented to Parliament by the end of the year. If approved, the measures are expected to come into force in spring 2027.
The proposal reflects growing concerns about the impact of social media on the mental and physical health of young people. Critics, however, argue that allowing users to disable the curfew could limit its effectiveness. Meta, TikTok and Google had not publicly commented on the proposal at the time of reporting.
