With UK ministers discussing plans to restrict social media access for under-16s, many parents are wondering what these changes could mean for family life. Searches for “social media ban” have surged in recent days, showing just how many people are trying to understand what might happen next.
Although the details are still being debated, experts believe age verification and age assurance technology could become much more common. Similar measures introduced in Australia have involved ID checks, selfie videos and other forms of age verification, meaning parents may soon need to become more familiar with how these systems work.
Ben O’Brien, Managing Director of ID Card Centre, shares six practical ways parents can prepare for any future changes.
1. Start the Conversation Before Any Ban Is Introduced
One of the biggest misconceptions is that a ban alone will stop children from accessing social media.
“We’ve seen with other age-restricted products and services that young people often look for ways around restrictions, whether that’s using older siblings’ accounts, entering false dates of birth or moving to alternative platforms,” says Ben.
Rather than waiting for new rules, parents can use this time to talk openly with children about why age restrictions exist and the risks they are intended to reduce. When children understand the reasons behind boundaries, they’re far more likely to respect them.
2. Review Every App Your Child Uses
Most parents immediately think of Instagram, TikTok or Snapchat, but many children spend just as much time communicating through gaming platforms, messaging apps and online communities.
Taking half an hour to review every app installed on a child’s device can be surprisingly worthwhile. Check:
- Privacy settings
- Location permissions
- Whether accounts are public or private
- Whether profiles can be found through searches
- Who can contact them
The less personal information visible online, the harder it is for strangers to build a picture of your child’s identity.
3. Understand How Age Verification Works
If restrictions are introduced, platforms are likely to use various forms of age verification. These could include:
- Facial age estimation technology
- Identity document checks
- Third-party verification services
Ben advises parents to familiarise themselves with the process.
“Legitimate providers will clearly explain why information is being requested, how it will be used and whether any personal data is retained. Knowing what a genuine age check looks like makes it easier to spot suspicious requests.”
Understanding these systems before they’re widespread can help families feel more confident when they encounter them.
4. Treat Identity Documents Like Financial Information
Most of us would think twice before handing over our bank details, but identity documents deserve the same level of protection.
A passport, driving licence or proof of address can be extremely valuable to criminals if it falls into the wrong hands.
Parents should:
- Never upload identity documents through unofficial websites.
- Check who is requesting information and why.
- Understand how data will be stored and protected.
- Teach children never to share photos of passports, driving licences, school IDs or other documents through social media or messaging apps.
Digital identity is becoming increasingly important, and good habits formed early can help protect children in the future.
5. Learn the Basics of VPNs
If restrictions are introduced, some tech-savvy teens may look for ways to get around them. One of the most common tools used to bypass location-based restrictions is a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
A VPN can make it appear that a device is connecting from another country, potentially allowing access to platforms that may otherwise be restricted in the UK. Some VPN services even offer free accounts, making them easy to download and use.
“Parents don’t need to become technology experts,” says Ben. “But understanding the basics and knowing that VPN apps are widely available can help families have more informed conversations.”
6. Be Prepared for Scammers
Whenever there is a major change in regulation, scammers are quick to take advantage.
If age checks become more common, parents could see fake emails, texts and websites claiming that users must urgently verify their age to avoid losing access to social media accounts.
Be especially cautious of messages asking for:
- Passport details
- Driving licence information
- Selfies or videos
- Payment card details
Legitimate companies will not pressure users into handing over personal information through threatening messages or unsolicited links.
The debate around a social media ban has largely focused on whether children should have access to these platforms. But the bigger challenge may be how age restrictions are enforced and how families manage their digital identities safely.
Ben O’Brien, Managing Director of ID Card Centre, believes online safety education will remain essential regardless of what legislation is introduced.
“If age verification becomes more common, parents will need to understand how legitimate checks work, how to spot scams and how to protect their family’s personal information. Digital identity is becoming a bigger part of everyday life and helping children navigate that safely is just as important as any new legislation.”
Whether age verification becomes widespread or not, teaching children about privacy, online safety and responsible digital habits remains one of the most effective ways parents can prepare for an ever-changing online world.