New Restrictions Introduced with Social Media Child Safety Regulation
The new regulation prepared to protect children on social media introduces a ban for users under 15 while outlining strict measures for those aged 15 to 18.
With the regulation prepared by the Presidency of Cybersecurity and published in the Official Gazette on October 10, new obligations for the protection of children on social media platforms are coming into effect.
Age Limits and Scope
Children who have not reached the age of 15 will not be able to open social media accounts or benefit from these services.
Children between the ages of 15 and 18 will be able to use accounts containing special security measures.
Effective Date
This newly prepared regulation will officially enter into force on November 1, 2026.
Companies are obligated to perform age verification and apply security rules starting from this date.
Age Verification via e-Government
Age verification will be carried out via a special digital token to be generated through the e-Government Gateway.
Instead of identity information, only whether the designated age limits are met will be transmitted to the platforms.
Banned Features
Opening live broadcasts on children's accounts will be banned, and personalized ads will not be displayed.
Presenting content through the infinite scroll method aimed at keeping users on the screen will not be permitted.
Status of Existing Accounts
Age verification for accounts opened previously will be completed by March 31, 2027.
Accounts of existing users determined to be under 15 years of age will be closed.
Communication and Privacy
Child users will only be able to receive messages and communicate with accounts they follow.
Accounts will be kept private by default, and users' follower lists will be concealed.
Parental Control Tools
Social media companies are required to offer parental control tools for parents to use.
Families will be able to set limits on daily usage times and approve paid transactions.