“Before bans for under-16s, we need to ask: what counts as social media?”

Key points

• Australia bans under-16s from social media; UK plans similar rules from 2027.
• Researchers surveyed 968 UK adults to see how they define social media.
• Findings show clear platform lists but blurred lines for many others.
• Public views on social media impacts are nuanced and context-dependent.
• Study suggests regulation must align with public understanding and platform design.