EU to propose strict age curbs on social media and online gaming

The European Union is set to unveil a new regulatory framework designed to restrict social media and online gaming access for children under 15 years old. Under the proposed legislation, minors in this age group would be prohibited from independently opening accounts on digital platforms, marking a significant tightening of existing age verification requirements across the bloc.

The regulatory approach adopts a tiered system that would allow supervised digital engagement for younger children. Rather than an outright ban, the framework would permit parental oversight and controlled access to these platforms for those below the proposed threshold age. This mechanism is intended to strike a balance between protecting children's wellbeing and allowing age-appropriate digital participation under family guidance.

The proposal reflects growing concerns among European regulators about the impact of social media and online gaming on child development, mental health, and data privacy. Policymakers across the EU have increasingly scrutinised how technology platforms engage younger users and the potential risks associated with unrestricted digital access during formative years.

The new legislative framework is expected to establish enforceable standards that social media companies and online gaming platforms must implement across EU member states. If adopted, the rules would represent one of the most comprehensive regulatory efforts globally to govern children's digital access and platform usage. The proposal is anticipated to face scrutiny from industry stakeholders and privacy advocates regarding implementation and enforcement mechanisms.