UK social media activity has declined sharply as users become more cautious about their online presence, according to Ofcom research. The watchdog found that only 59 per cent of people now believe the benefits of being online outweigh the risks, down from 72 per cent last year. Active participation has fallen, with only half of users regularly posting, sharing, or commenting compared to 61 per cent in 2024.

While nine in 10 UK adults still use at least one social media platform, their behavior has shifted toward more passive consumption. The proportion exploring new websites dropped from 70 per cent to 56 per cent. Users are increasingly selective about their posts, with many adopting temporary formats like Instagram Stories or stopping altogether. Nearly half expressed concern that their online posts could cause future problems, up from 43 per cent.

These findings bolster arguments for restricting social media access for children, with ministers considering a ban for under-16s. The trend reflects growing awareness of social media's risks and time consumption, as many users feel they spend too long on devices. This shift in user behavior could have significant implications for social media companies' engagement metrics and advertising models as passive consumption becomes more prevalent.