While access to platforms such as Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook will be blocked, messaging applications such as WhatsApp will not be covered.

The U.K. seems to be following Australia's lead in banning a wide swath of social media for teens.

The ban will apply to platforms including Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X. The move makes the U.K. part of a growing global movement to tighten online safety…