UK proposes midnight social media curfew for older teens
UK social media curfew rules could limit late-night use for teens and protect sleep See what the new safety proposal means for families, platforms, and 2027 rollout
The U.K. government has proposed new online safety rules for 16 and 17yearolds that would set a default midnight curfew on social media and turn off features such as infinite scrolling and autoplay unless users choose to change them.
Officials said the measures are intended to reduce unhealthy latenight use of platforms and follow a trial involving more than 300 teens and parents that found overnight limits could improve sleep, concentration, mood, and stress levels. The government said the changes are expected to take effect by spring 2027.
The proposal comes as British and European policymakers increase pressure on tech companies over child safety online. TikTok said it already offers builtin protections for younger users, while U.K. leaders continue debating broader restrictions for under16s.