New Age Limit and Security Measures on Social Media in Turkey
The new social media regulation prepared by the Ministry of Family and Social Services introduces restrictions for children under 15 and a mandatory age verification via e-Government.
The new social media regulation planned to be implemented to enhance the digital safety of children in Turkey includes a ban for those under 15, age verification via e-Government, and special security measures for the 15-18 age group.
Main Objectives and Rationale of the Regulation
Prepared to increase the safety of children in the digital environment, the social media regulation aims to take precautions against risks such as online abuse, harmful content, protection of personal data, and uncontrolled screen time.
Restrictions for Those Under 15
Within the framework of the comprehensive regulation announced by Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, social network providers are mandated not to offer services to children who have not completed the age of 15.
Age Verification System with e-Government
The planned age verification system is envisioned to be implemented through e-Government and various technical methods. Platforms are expected to maintain age checks not only during account creation but also throughout the usage process.
Transition Period and Deadline
It is anticipated that a transition period until March 31, 2027, will be granted for existing social media accounts to comply with the new rules.
Security Measures for the 15-18 Age Group
The new regulation does not only cover those under 15; it also aims to create digital spaces appropriate for their age and segregated from adults for users in the 15-18 age group.
Harmful Content and Live Stream Restrictions
Filtering harmful content, strengthening privacy measures, and restricting certain features such as live streaming are on the agenda to increase children's safety.
Screen Time and Design Regulations
It is stated that designs encouraging users to stay longer on platforms, such as infinite scrolling, are also addressed within the scope of the regulation for the protection of children.