Age limits for children's social media use are coming in European countries

Digital security measures are being increased across Europe due to children's exposure to inappropriate content and the negative effects of excessive social media use on mental health. Alongside the European Commission's "EU Children's Act" proposal, countries such as Germany, Greece, Poland, France, and the UK are preparing new legal regulations and strategies at the national level.

With the "EU Children's Act" proposal announced by the European Commission on September 17, it is envisaged that children under the age of 13 will be prevented from accessing social media services, while those in the 13-15 age group will be able to use the platforms via limited accounts managed by their parents or guardians. Within the scope of the proposal, it is aimed to limit "infinite scrolling" features, block notifications during sleep hours, and use age verification systems.

Until common legislation is enacted across the EU, Germany approved a temporary national strategy document on October 14 to prevent children under 13 from using social networks. While a bill regarding the use of social media by those under 15 is being discussed in the parliament in Greece, the Polish Ministry of Digital Affairs is working on an age limit of 15, and the use of mobile phones in schools has been banned in the country. Legal processes regarding similar age and access restrictions are also being advanced in France and the UK.