New Phase Begins in Social Media Regulation
The Ministry of Family and Social Services is putting into effect a regulation prepared to protect children from digital risks. The practice, which will begin on November 1, includes age limits and parental control mechanisms.
Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş announced that the 'Regulation on the Provision of Differentiated Services Specific to Children by Social Network Providers and Age Verification', prepared within the scope of the law adopted in the Turkish Grand National Assembly in May, has been published in the Official Gazette. The regulation, which will enter into force on November 1, 2026, aims to increase children's safety in the digital world.
Restrictions for Under 15
With the new regulation, social network providers are prohibited from offering services to children under the age of 15. This step aims to minimize the risks children face on digital platforms.
Age Verification and e-Government Integration
User age verification will be carried out through e-Government without sharing identity information. For existing account holders, a requirement has been introduced to complete this verification process by March 31, 2027.
Security Measures for the 15-18 Age Group
Accounts of teenagers between the ages of 15 and 18 will be kept private by default. Additionally, users in this age group will be prevented from broadcasting live, and technical measures restricting screenshot taking will be put into effect.
Parental Control and Data Security
The regulation prohibits the commercial use of children's personal data and addictive designs. Parents are granted full control over account settings, screen time, and location sharing.