Title page 1

Contents 4

General Information 6

Why we are consulting 6

Consultation details 6

How to respond 6

Confidentiality and data protection 7

Quality assurance 7

Secretary of State Foreword 8

Introduction 10

Chapter 1: Understanding how children use technology 14

Chapter 2: Interventions for safer, more positive experiences 18

Restricting social media services by age 18

Age of digital consent 21

Restricting access to services based on features and functionalities 24

'Addiction', compulsive design and displacement 28

What type of services should restrictions apply to 33

Chatbots and AI 35

Chapter 3: Effective compliance and enforcement of online safety rules 39

Improving age assurance 39

Circumvention of age limits 42

Enforcement of mobile phone policies in schools 44

Chapter 4: Preparing children for a digital future and enriching their online experiences 47

Building essential digital skills and media literacy 47

Supporting children at school 49

Support them through community and other settings 49

Industry and civil society initiatives 50

Supporting adults, including parents, carers and families 51

Promoting access to high quality content 54

Chapter 5: Supporting families 57

Parental controls 57

Screentime guidance for parents and carers 58

Pilots 60

Consultation Questions 61