The UK government has signaled its intent to tackle children’s online addictive habits, as part of a broader push to create a safer digital environment for young users.
Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan confirmed that newly introduced online safety rules will come with “really robust safeguards” to ensure proper age verification on tech platforms.
“This is the foundation for a safer online experience for children, but it is not the end of the conversation,” Keegan said. She added that Technology Secretary Peter Kyle is actively exploring additional measures to reduce addictive behaviors in children using digital platforms. However, specific policies or actions were not detailed.
New Age Verification Rules and Platform Accountability
Ofcom’s chief executive, Melanie Dawes, also appeared on the programme, stating that the new rules would force tech companies to “very significantly” alter the algorithms that power their content feeds—particularly those aimed at children.
Dawes noted that while websites would have some leeway in choosing their age-verification tools, any platform failing to implement adequate checks would face regulatory enforcement.
“We will take enforcement action where necessary,” she warned.
Gaps in Legislation for AI
Dawes also acknowledged potential gaps in the current legal framework, especially concerning newer forms of artificial intelligence. “There may need to be some changes to the legislation to cover that,” she said.
The move reflects growing concern among policymakers, parents, and regulators over how online platforms may contribute to compulsive behavior, screen addiction, and mental health issues among children.
