Beeban Kidron Publishes 'Users,' Urging Under-16 Curbs on Big Tech
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 13
Beeban Kidron Publishes 'Users,' Urging Under-16 Curbs on Big Tech
2 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 13
Summary
Beeban Kidron’s new book, 'Users,' argues Britain has failed for 14 years to protect children online and says politicians still move too slowly against powerful tech platforms.
Kidron grounds that case in child exploitation and AI-generated abuse, citing police fears such material can normalize offending and research suggesting more than 800,000 UK men have a sexual interest in children.
Her campaign has already helped win a 2023 ban on software used to create or share AI child sexual abuse material, but she says current proposals still neglect chatbots, older teens and younger children already online.
Kidron backs tougher design rules and can live with an under-16 social media ban, yet argues the deeper fix is denying platforms access to children until they can guarantee privacy, respect and safety.
The book broadens that attack beyond platforms to governments she says defer to Silicon Valley for growth, data and AI investment even as bereaved parents and online abuse cases keep mounting.
The UK regulates Big Tech for safety but also seeks its investment. Can a country prioritize child safety over tech profits?
The UK has new laws against AI abuse. Can legislation really win the race against rapidly evolving AI technology?
Delaying kids’ smartphone access is advised for safety. But what is the social price they pay for being disconnected?
Children, Social Media, and the Law: The UK’s 2026 Battle Over Bans, Age Verification, and Big Tech Accountability
Overview
As of June 2026, the UK is in the midst of a heated debate about banning social media for those under 16, reflecting rising concerns about the effects of digital platforms on children's mental health and development. The discussion has intensified recently, with public figures calling for stronger government action, arguing that parents alone cannot shield children from online harm. In response, the government launched a national consultation in March 2026 to gather public opinion on improving young people's relationship with phones and social media, which closed in May after receiving over 116,000 responses. This process highlights the UK's search for effective ways to protect children online.