EU Proposes 'Kids Act' to Ban Social Media for Under-13s and Impose Strict Age Gates

Key points

• The EU Kids Act bans social media, video sharing, and AI chatbots for users under 13.
• Teens aged 13 to 15 may only access platforms for one hour daily through 'mini accounts' linked to a parent's profile.
• Companies must demonstrate their services are safe by design or face fines up to 6% of global turnover.
• The regulation requires age verification via an existing EU app, with no personal data collection, to address privacy concerns.
• The proposal supersedes national laws in member states like France and Spain, which have already attempted similar bans.
• Enforcement remains a challenge, with critics noting that age verification is often circumvented by tech-savvy minors.

Background

This proposal follows months of discussion and builds on earlier EU digital rules, including the AI Act and Digital Services Act. In July 2026, the Commission issued preliminary findings that Meta must alter addictive design features on Facebook and Instagram. The EU also cited its special panel on child safety, which recommended age-appropriate regulations. The move aligns with global trends, including Australia's ban on under-16s and California's recent safeguards for minors, though enforcement in Australia has struggled.

How outlets are covering it

BBC emphasizes the political dimension, noting that the legislation would supersede national laws in France and Spain, where courts have blocked or amended similar bans. It highlights Ursula von der Leyen's assertion that parents should be 'back in the driving seat.' CNET focuses on the technical and legal implications, describing the act as a 'big shift' that reverses the burden of proof onto tech companies. It notes that the proposal covers not just social media but also online games and AI chatbots, and highlights the 'sticking point' of age verification privacy concerns. Positive News frames the proposal as a victory for child safety campaigners, quoting experts who believe the EU's stricter approach will succeed where Australia's ban has failed. It also notes that the legislation is broader than initially expected, including requirements for parental controls and safe recommendation algorithms.

Why it matters

The EU Kids Act represents a landmark shift in global tech regulation, placing the burden of proof on companies to ensure child safety rather than relying on voluntary measures. If enacted, it could set a precedent for other jurisdictions and significantly impact the business models of major tech platforms. The legislation's success will depend on overcoming legal challenges related to privacy and enforcement, as well as political opposition from member states and tech companies. It also signals a growing consensus that current social media designs are harmful to children, potentially influencing future regulations in the US and other regions.

What to watch

The proposal must be approved by EU member states and the European Parliament. Tech companies are expected to lobby against the restrictions, and legal challenges over age verification privacy are likely. Member states may attempt to strengthen or weaken the proposals, as seen in France. The Commission has warned that national laws conflicting with the EU Kids Act may need to be repealed. Enforcement mechanisms, including 90-day investigation timelines and compliance plans for large platforms, will be critical to the act's effectiveness.