Governments around the world are introducing new measures to limit children’s access to social media platforms as concerns grow over online safety, mental health and excessive screen time.

Australia became the first country to implement a nationwide restriction for users under the age of sixteen, encouraging several other nations to consider similar legislation.

Supporters of the proposed laws argue that restricting access to social media can help reduce cyberbullying, online exploitation, addiction and exposure to harmful content.

Technology companies operating in affected countries may also be required to introduce stronger age verification systems to ensure compliance.
France has approved legislation preventing children under the age of fifteen from accessing social media platforms, while countries including Austria, Canada, Denmark, Greece, Indonesia, Malaysia, Poland, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey and the United Kingdom are considering or developing similar policies.

Many of the proposed regulations require technology companies to verify users’ ages through secure methods rather than relying solely on self reported information. In several countries, companies that fail to comply could face substantial financial penalties.

Despite growing political support, critics continue to question whether broad restrictions will effectively protect young people. Privacy advocates have also expressed concerns that mandatory age verification systems could create new risks involving personal data and government oversight.

Source:TechCrunch