Nearly half of UK girls saw harmful social media content in a week, research shows (opens original article in a new tab)

A study reveals that nearly half of UK girls and a third of all teenagers encountered harmful social media content in a week, highlighting ongoing concerns about online safety and calls for stricter regulations.

• Nearly half of UK girls aged 13-17 saw harmful social media content in a week, according to a study
• New safety measures introduced in July 2025 have not significantly reduced exposure to harmful content
• A proposed ban on under-16s accessing social media is being considered by the UK government
• Scottish officials are urging the UK government to take stronger action against online harm