Why is Starmer banning kids from social media? British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a ban on social media use for individuals under 16 and mandatory identity verification for adults on major platforms. Critics argue this move is a backdoor implementation of digital ID, which was previously rejected by the public and Parliament. The proposed enforcement measures, drawing parallels to Australia’s system and the UK’s Online Safety Act, raise concerns about online anonymity and government surveillance capabilities.

• British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a ban on social media for under-16s and mandatory identity verification for adults.
• Critics allege the ban is a method to introduce digital ID by stealth, a policy previously opposed by public and political groups.
• The enforcement mechanism involves age verification using methods like facial scanning or government ID, similar to Australia’s approach.
• Concerns are raised about the potential end of online anonymity and increased government power to track citizens.
• Tech executives and privacy advocates express worries that the true aim is government surveillance rather than child protection.