Online safety complaints linked to children and young people rise more than 700% over two years, ahead of Government action on under-16s social media use
As the UK Government considers new measures to improve children’s online experiences following its recent consultation on social media use, new Freedom of Information data obtained by Compare the Market reveals a sharp rise in online safety complaints affecting children and young people.
The figures show Ofcom received 929 complaints relating to online safety concerns involving children and young people in 2025. This marks a 280% increase compared to 2024, when 244 complaints were recorded, and a rise of more than 700% compared to 2023, when Ofcom received 116 complaints.
The complaints fell into Ofcom’s “Harmful Content” and “Safety and Complaints” categories, highlighting growing concern around the type of content and experiences younger users are encountering online.
Year
Number of Complaints Filed
2023
116
2024
244
2025
929
2026 (as of 11th February)
176
The findings come as the Government considers introducing new restrictions for under-16s following its consultation on children’s social media use. The consultation examined a range of measures, including age restrictions, limits on certain platform features and stronger protections for younger users, amid growing concern about children’s exposure to harmful content and online experiences.
Separate research suggests confidence in the online environment may be weakening more broadly as 56%* of social media users say they have seen misleading or false news online in the past year. While four in ten online adults report encountering misinformation online.
Matt Brewer, Mobile Expert at Compare the Market, commented: “As policymakers consider how best to improve children’s online experiences, these figures highlight the scale of concern around the content and interactions young people are encountering online.
“While there is ongoing debate about the most effective approach, whether through age restrictions, stronger safeguards or changes to platform design, the sharp rise in complaints suggests online safety remains a significant and growing concern for many families.
“While online platforms continue to introduce new safety tools and protections, it remains important for users and parents to stay vigilant online. Taking simple steps such as reviewing privacy settings, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication and checking that apps and devices are running the latest software updates can all help improve online safety.
“It’s also important to regularly review subscriptions, parental controls and the platforms children are using, while making sure any online services or apps are downloaded from trusted providers. Speaking openly with younger users about scams, misleading content and suspicious links can also help people feel more confident navigating online spaces safely.”
