The government is studying the possibility of banning people under 16 from accessing social media, as well as other solutions to the possible harm caused by the platforms, sources told Bloomberg. A consultation to gather evidence about the links between social media use and kids’ safety could come as soon as January. (Bloomberg)

Talking point: The U.K. government passed the Online Safety Act in October. It intends to protect children and others from “legal but harmful” material, but critics have said its requirement for Big Tech to regulate itself gives the companies too much power. The National Crime Agency has also warned parents in Britain about safety concerns on Facebook, after Meta announced it will introduce encrypted messaging. The U.K.’s efforts come as other governments grapple with how to address concerns over children’s use of online platforms. In October, 33 U.S. states filed a federal lawsuit claiming Meta has targeted kids with addictive features on Facebook and Instagram.