No more social media accounts for children
The new regulations provide for a ban on the use of social media platforms for children under 13 years of age and restrictions for older teenagers.
Quick Look
- Children under 13 will lose access to social media.
- For teenagers, mini-accounts under parental supervision and more secure versions of the platforms have been introduced.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The new regulations are a response to growing concerns about the impact of social media on the mental health of young people.
No more accounts for the youngest
As announced, children under 13 will not be able to use social media platforms at all. This means that the youngest users will say goodbye to TikTok, Instagram and Facebook.
For children aged 13–14, the so-called mini-accounts – set up and supervised by parents, with limited functions and limits on time spent online.
Safer versions for teenagers
The new regulations are also intended to cover older teenagers. Social media platforms will be required to introduce safer versions of their services for users aged 15-18.
This is a response to growing concerns about the impact of social media on the mental health of young people.
“We make the rules!”
The head of the European Commission made it clear: We set our rules, not large technology companies, emphasized Ursula von der Leyen.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Introducing more secure versions of services and mini-accounts via social media platforms
Very likely · Within months
Open Questions
- When exactly will the new regulations come into force?
- What age verification mechanisms will be used?
