UK PM Starmer Demands Tech Giants Block Children from Sending Nude Images or Face Law Change

On June 8, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued an ultimatum to technology companies including Apple and Google to introduce device-level controls preventing children from sending and receiving sexually explicit images, or face legislative action. Speaking at London Tech Week, Starmer called on firms to activate built-in features or develop technological solutions on smartphones and tablets sold in the UK. The measures would apply to operating systems such as iOS and Android and will not affect adult users who verify their age.

Children's charity NSPCC welcomed the government's announcement, with chief executive Chris Sherwood stating that nudity-blocking technology could prevent online grooming and child sexual abuse. "Time is up for big tech," Sherwood said, emphasizing that mandatory device-level protections mark a major step forward in combating online child exploitation.