Global Scans · Social media · Weekly Summary

• [New] The UK Government has announced that it plans to introduce a total ban on access to social media for children under 16. Mishcon de Reya LLP
• [New] From 2027, under-16s would be banned from social media platforms including Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, X and Instagram. The Week
• [New] This week, the UK announced a wide-ranging ban on social media that will soon block users from communicating or accessing information on apps such as X, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok and Snapchat unless they prove that they are over the age of 16. The Guardian
• [New] A new social media fee on large platforms is projected to generate $200 million annually, while a 0.2% tax on digital asset transactions and services is expected to raise $60 million. ISACo
• [New] One of the biggest emerging questions about the UK's social media ban is how it will be enforced. BBC News
• [New] Under-16s will lose access to social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube, while the minimum age for chatbots that imitate romantic interactions will be raised to 18. Wired
• [New] Social media health influencers and TikTok doctors generate high engagement but low clinical credibility, creating positioning risks for healthcare organizations. TopDoctor Magazine
• [New] There are steps that the UK government could be taking now - from banning the use of social media for children and using Ofcom's powers to force social media firms to act. The Guardian
• [New] White House displeasure over the prospect of an under-16 social media ban will not deter the UK from cracking down on tech platforms. The Guardian
• [New] Social media ad spending is projected to reach $317.33 billion in 2026. demandsage
• [New] Ad spending on social media is expected to grow at 10.9% annually from 2026 through 2030. / USA CompaniesHistory.com

Last updated: 22 June 2026