Child Online Safety
Ongoing coverage on Child Online Safety.
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Epic boss Tim Sweeney says the EU's social media ban for under-13s 'would be terrible for the next generation…
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized the European Union's proposed KIDS Act, which would ban social media use for children under 13 and restrict access for those aged 13-15. Sweeney argued that such regulations would stifle creativity and expression, comparing modern games like Fortnite and Roblox to essential tools for digital creation.
European Commission's proposed EU Kids Act could see online games forced to enact stricter age verification amid new rules around accounts for under 15s
The European Commission is proposing the EU Kids Act, which would mandate stricter age verification for online games and other digital services for users under 15. The legislation aims to protect minors from exploitation by requiring tiered account systems and parental controls, though concerns about data protection and anonymity remain.
Australia's social media ban for under-16s has had limited impact so far
Australia's recent social media ban for individuals under 16 has shown limited impact, with no significant change observed in AI chatbot usage among children. However, approximately 22 percent of children continue to use platforms like Pinterest.
UK will ban social media for children under 16
The United Kingdom is implementing a ban on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram for individuals under the age of 16. This move follows a similar regulatory approach taken by Australia concerning online child safety.
Estonia is the rare EU country opposing child social media bans
Estonia's education minister Kristina Kallas stated that child social media bans, proposed or enacted in several European countries, will not solve the underlying problems. She argued that the responsibility should lie with governments and corporations to regulate platforms, rather than placing the burden on children to self-regulate. The minister also warned that bans could lead to an erosion of freedoms and that children would likely find ways to circumvent such restrictions.