Uk Prime Minister Orders Tech Crackdown on Explicit Images, Warns Companies
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced new tech reforms aimed at strengthening child safeguarding online. The policy targets the sending, receiving, and viewing of explicit images by children on digital devices.
Speaking at London Tech Week, Starmer urged technology companies in the UK to introduce stronger device-level protections. He gave firms three months to comply. Otherwise, the government will introduce laws to enforce compliance.
The reforms aim to restrict children’s access to nude or explicit content on smartphones and other devices. Officials believe the UK could become the first country to apply such strict digital safeguards at scale.
Alongside this, the government unveiled broader digital safety plans. These include an AI-powered job support tool and a consultation on screentime guidance for children. Together, the measures form part of a wider child online safety strategy.
Reactions to the announcement remain divided. Big Brother Watch criticised the proposal, describing it as “extreme technological censorship.” The group also warned that the policy could lead to excessive government control.
In contrast, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children welcomed the move. It said stronger safeguards are necessary to reduce online harm and exploitation risks affecting children.
Child safeguarding experts point to rising risks in digital spaces. These include exposure to sexual content, peer sharing of explicit images, and online coercion. As a result, they argue that stronger protections are increasingly urgent.
However, critics say technology restrictions alone may not be enough. They recommend combining safety tools with education, parental involvement, and stronger platform accountability.
The government has indicated that further measures are coming soon. These will include tighter rules on children’s access to social media under its wider digital safety agenda.
