British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called on tech giants Apple and Google to implement measures that would prevent minors from taking, sending, or viewing nude images on smartphones and tablets. Speaking at London Tech Week, Starmer warned that if the companies do not voluntarily activate built-in safety features within three months, the government will introduce legislation to force compliance, potentially including fines or criminal liability.
"This is not an impossible challenge," Starmer said. "These are some of the most innovative companies in the world, and I believe they can solve it."
The proposed changes would apply to both existing and newly sold devices in the UK. Adult users would be unaffected as long as they verify their age. The government aims to address the growing concern over online grooming and sextortion, noting that 91% of reported child sexual abuse material in 2024 was self-generated by children, and the average child encounters pornography by age 13.
Google responded, stating it is "deeply committed to protecting children online" and is working with UK partners to find privacy-preserving solutions. Apple already offers a Communication Safety feature that warns children with Child Accounts when they send or receive nude images across its apps, and it is turned on by default for under-18s.
The UK has existing laws like the Online Safety Act, enforced by media regulator Ofcom, but campaigners argue stronger action is needed. The government is also considering restrictions on under-16s' social media use, including potential age limits or bans on addictive features.
Reactions have been mixed. Andy Burrows of the Molly Rose Foundation welcomed the move but criticized the government's communication strategy. Silkie Carlo of Big Brother Watch called the plans "outrageous," warning they could lead to mandatory ID checks for internet access. Conversely, the NSPCC's Chris Sherwood said, "Time is up for big tech," urging swift implementation.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized tech companies' "moral duty" to act, while Technology Secretary Liz Kendall gave them three months to comply voluntarily. Labour MP Jess Phillips, who resigned as safeguarding minister earlier this year, had accused Starmer of being slow on this issue.