Governments around the world are introducing tougher laws to shield children from the growing risks associated with social media, including cyberbullying, harmful content, data exploitation, and excessive screen time linked to poor mental health.
The shift marks a significant change in global technology policy, with countries moving beyond voluntary parental controls to enforce mandatory age verification and stricter legal obligations on social media companies. Under the new approach, platforms are increasingly being held responsible for preventing underage users from accessing their services and for ensuring children are protected online.
Policymakers argue that stronger regulation is necessary as concerns grow over the impact of social media on young people's wellbeing, privacy, and safety. Failure to comply with the new rules could expose technology companies to hefty fines and other legal penalties.