The United Kingdom government is considering extending its proposed social media ban for children under 16 to online shopping platforms Vinted and eBay.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the government was seriously considering including the resale platforms in the restrictions as part of efforts to protect children from online harm.
Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, Nandy said the government was looking at the possibility of extending the ban to the websites.
The proposal comes amid concerns that messaging features on online marketplaces could expose children to grooming by strangers.
Other platforms, including Depop and Facebook Marketplace, could also be affected if the government proceeds with the proposed expansion.
The UK had earlier announced plans to restrict children under 16 from accessing major social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat, with the measures expected to take effect in March 2027.
Vinted and eBay have both expressed willingness to engage with the government over the proposed restrictions.
The government is expected to publish further details on the platforms that will be affected as it continues developing its online safety measures.
