The UK government has confirmed it may “age restrict or limit children’s VPN use” if the tools are found to undermine online safety protections.

In a press release published yesterday, the government vowed to “close loopholes that put children at risk” by introducing powers to implement internet safety measures more quickly following its three-month consultation.

Ministers are expected to table an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, granting them the authority to “act at speed.” Any significant measures – such as enforcing age-verification for VPN providers – will still face a final vote in Parliament before becoming law.