Age Limit of 15 Introduced for Social Media Use
With a decision published in the Official Gazette, a mandatory age verification requirement has been introduced for all domestic and foreign social network providers, banning access for children under the age of 15.
Under the new social media regulation prepared by the Cyber Security Presidency and published in the Official Gazette, a mandatory age verification requirement has been introduced for domestic and foreign platforms operating in Turkey, while children under 15 are banned from using social networks.
New Regulation Published in the Official Gazette
The comprehensive regulation regarding social media use prepared by the Cyber Security Presidency was published in the Official Gazette, taking official steps for the implementation process.
Age Verification System via e-Government
According to the new rules, the ages of users who want to open accounts on platforms will be checked via a special document to be generated through e-Government, and this document will only contain information on age limits.
Access Ban for Individuals Under 15
As a result of the checks to be carried out, requests to open new accounts by individuals determined not to have reached the age of 15 will be definitively rejected.
Closure Schedule for Existing Accounts
Age verification procedures for accounts opened previously must be completed by March 31, 2027, and the accounts of minors who fail to meet this requirement will be closed.
Special Restrictions for Youth Aged 15-18
For children who have completed 15 years of age but have not reached 18, special measures such as keeping accounts private, a ban on live streaming, and non-personalized advertisements will be implemented.
Parental Control and Oversight Mechanisms
Within the scope of the regulation, parents are offered the opportunity to manage their children's account settings, limit daily usage time, and monitor paid transactions.
Effective Date and Infrastructure Preparations
Within the framework of the rules coming into effect on November 1, 2026, social network providers are required to complete the necessary technical infrastructure by this date.