The Internet can be a dangerous place for children, but new UK laws aim to make it safer. The Online Safety Act, which comes into full force in July 2025, requires tech companies to take stronger steps to protect young users from harmful content. Here’s what parents should know – and how they can help keep kids safe.
What Does the Online Safety Act Do?
The law forces social media platforms, search engines, and gaming sites to take action against harmful content. Companies must now filter out dangerous material – such as posts promoting suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, and pornography – from children’s feeds. They also need stricter age checks to prevent under – 18s from seeing inappropiate content.
It firms don’t comply, they could face huge fines – up to £18 million or 10% of their global revenue. In extreme cases, Ofcom (the UK’s media regulator) can even block apps or websites from being available in the UK.
Why Some Say the Law Doesn’t Go Far Enough
While the Act is a step forward, critics argue it’s not strong enough. Some campaigners, including lan Russell – whose 14 year old daughter Molly died after seeing harmful content online – believe the rules lack ambition. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have also called for tougher protections, saying social media companies must do more to prevent child harm.
Privacy campaigners, however, worry that stricter age checks could invade user’s personal data without effectively stopping kids from accessing bad content.
How Much Time Do Kids Spend Online?
Research shows UK children aged 8 to 17 spend between two and five hours online daily. Nearly all teens have smartphones, and most watch videos on platform like TikTok and YouTube. While many say being online is good for their mental health, studies also reveal disturbing trends – half of 13-year olds have seen violent and misogynistic porn, and harmful content about self-harm and suicide is widespread.
What Can Parents Do to Keep Kids Safe?
Even with new laws, parents play a crucial role in online safety. Here are some steps they can take:
- Use parental controls: Many phones, gaming consoles, and internet providers offer tools to block explicit content.
- Talk openly with kids: Discuss online risks and encourage them to report anything worrying.
- Check privacy settings: Social media platforms like Instagram now have “teen accounts” with stricter default settings.
However, Ofcom warns that about 20% of children know how to bypass these controls, so supervision and communication are key.
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