EU considers banning children under 16 from using social networks

New proposals tighten protection for children online, including banning people under 16 from accessing social networks and using AI without parental consent.

The new proposal is part of Europe's efforts to protect children online - Photo: REUTERS

On October 16, the European Parliament's Committee on Consumer Protection and the Internal Market approved a proposal to tighten social media use by teenagers.

Accordingly, teenagers across the European Union (EU) must be over 16 to access social networks and use artificial intelligence (AI) without parental consent. Children under 13 are completely banned from accessing social networks, whether their parents allow it or not.

"We need to set higher standards for access to social media. Then we need stronger protections for minors using online services," AFP news agency quoted Danish EU lawmaker Christel Schaldemose as saying.

To limit teens' access to harmful content, European lawmakers are calling for banning interaction-based algorithms for minors, disabling addictive design features, and banning gambling-like mechanics like loot boxes in children's games.

Europe also proposed banning platforms from monetizing or encouraging minors to become online influencers.

After being approved by a majority of votes in the committee, the proposal will be voted on by the European Parliament in a plenary session from 24 to 27 November.

The move is part of a push for EU-wide action to limit children's use of social media, going beyond the bloc's strict rules on digital space.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supports the move. This month, 25 of the 27 EU countries, along with Norway and Iceland, signed a declaration backing von der Leyen's plan to propose a minimum age for social media users amid the "urgent need" to protect minors online.

Back to topic

TRAN PHUONG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/eu-tinh-cam-thieu-nien-duoi-16-tuoi-su-dung-mang-xa-hoi-20251016210156701.htm