Fewer UK Adults Actively Post on Social Media, Ofcom Finds

Recent findings from Ofcom’s 2025 Adults’ Media Use and Attitudes report highlight a decline in active engagement by UK adults on social media platforms. The data reflects changing patterns in online behaviour and perceptions of digital risks and benefits among internet users.

According to Ofcom, nearly half of adult social media users in the UK reported posting, sharing, or commenting in 2025, a decrease from the previous year. The regulator also found that fewer users are seeking out new websites, with a notable drop compared to 2024 figures.

Ofcom’s research involved a quantitative survey of 7,533 UK adults aged 16 and over, conducted between late September and late November 2025. The study also included a qualitative component, with around 20 participants, which indicated that some adults have stopped posting entirely or prefer temporary content formats such as Instagram Stories instead of permanent posts.

The regulator stated that the rise of short-form video features and platforms, including TikTok and Instagram Reels, has contributed to the reduction in active social media use. This shift in platform features is reflected in the changing ways users interact with social media content.

What the numbers show

• 49% of adult social media users in the UK actively posted, shared, or commented in 2025, down from 61% in 2024
• The proportion of users exploring new websites dropped from 70% in 2024 to 56% in 2025
• 89% of adult internet users in the UK use at least one social media platform, rising to 97% among those aged 16-34
• Concerns about historic posts causing future problems increased from 43% in 2024 to 49% in 2025
• The share of adults who feel online benefits outweigh risks fell from 72% in 2024 to 59% in 2025

Ofcom reported that the proportion of social media users who believe platforms are beneficial for their mental health declined from 42% in 2024 to 36% in 2025. This suggests a shift in how users view the impact of social media on their well-being.

The regulator also found that worries about old posts causing future issues have become more common, with nearly half of users expressing this concern in 2025. This increase corresponds with a broader decrease in the number of users who feel the advantages of being online outweigh the risks.

Despite these changes in engagement and perception, the overall use of social media platforms remains high among UK adults. Ofcom reported that 89% of adult internet users use at least one social media platform, with usage reaching 97% for those aged 16 to 34.

Ofcom’s findings have been covered by media outlets including The Guardian and MLex, which summarised the decline in active social media use and the reduction in perceived benefits of being online. MLex also stated that the proportion of adults who feel online benefits outweigh risks dropped to 59% in 2025.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.