France approves social media ban for under-15s

France approves social media ban for under-15s

France has approved legislation that will restrict children under the age of 15 from using social media platforms, with the new rules expected to take effect in January 2027.

Under the law, social media platforms will have to verify the age of every user before allowing access to their services. The government says the measure aims to protect children from the potential harmful effects of excessive social media use, particularly concerns surrounding mental health, online safety, and exposure to inappropriate content.

The move would make France the first European country to introduce such a broad age-based restriction on social media access. Authorities believe stronger safeguards are necessary as concerns continue to grow over the impact of social media on young people’s emotional well-being and development.

The new rules will require social media companies to introduce reliable age-verification systems to prevent children below the minimum age from creating or maintaining accounts. The government is expected to work with technology companies and regulators to ensure that platforms comply with the new requirements.

The decision comes as several other countries consider similar measures. The United Kingdom and the European Union are also examining ways to strengthen protections for children online, including possible age restrictions and tighter controls on social media platforms.

Supporters of the French legislation argue that children need greater protection from the risks associated with prolonged social media exposure. However, the policy may also face challenges over privacy, enforcement, and how platforms can verify users’ ages without collecting excessive personal information.