Greece is proposing a ban on social networking services for children under 15, including Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. The bill will go before parliamentary committees on October 13, with debate and a final vote scheduled for October 22. The rules are expected to take effect on January 1, 2027, allowing platforms time to prepare.
Platforms would be responsible for checking users’ ages while protecting their privacy. Digital proof of age could confirm that a user meets the age limit without revealing full identity details. Companies could choose different methods, provided they meet European legal requirements. Greek authorities and their European partners would oversee the rules through the European Union’s Digital Services Act, which sets requirements for online services. A user complaint could start the enforcement process.
The government says the proposal aims to protect children from risks associated with social media. These include anxiety, depression, online bullying, and difficulty concentrating. It argues that a clear age limit and reliable checks would help reduce these risks. However, the measure’s effectiveness would depend on platforms meeting their responsibilities.
