Brussels proposes age restrictions for social media access

The proposed rules extend well beyond traditional social networks like Instagram or TikTok, targeting video-sharing platforms, online gaming environments such as Roblox, and generative AI services like ChatGPT. To enforce these limits, the Commission intends to deploy a proprietary age-verification tool requiring third-party identity checks and facial recognition. Platforms would also be compelled to adopt 'safety by design' principles, stripping away addictive features like infinite scrolling for users under 16.

Responsibility for compliance falls heavily on tech companies, which must prove their services meet these safety benchmarks to the European Commission. However, the legislation faces a complex path through the 27 EU member states and the European Parliament. While political appetite for child protection is high, member states like Estonia have expressed caution regarding the administrative burden on industry. Furthermore, civil-society organizations, including EDRi, argue that the focus should remain on universal safety standards rather than age-gating. Privacy advocates and industry players alike warn that mandatory age verification introduces significant cybersecurity risks, potentially compromising user data in the very process meant to protect minors.