Australia is requiring tech firms to verify the age of users, with potential fines exceeding three-quarters of a billion koruna for non-compliance, since December of last year. Experts suggest excessive time spent on social media by children is linked to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and decreased concentration.
Growing Concerns and Public Opinion
A public opinion survey conducted in June 2025, encompassing 27,000 respondents across 30 countries, revealed significant support for banning social media for children under 14. In Germany, approximately 50 percent of those surveyed favored a ban, although in France, the figure rose to 85 percent. However, questions remain regarding the feasibility of complete bans for minors.
Tech companies have begun lobbying against the ban in Brussels. Meta and TikTok, among others, oppose a blanket ban and propose alternatives, such as stricter age verification through app stores like Apple and Google. Most social media platforms already state a minimum age of 13, but compliance relies on user self-reporting.
Verification Efforts and International Reactions
The European Commission is developing a prototype age verification app to deter circumvention through VPNs or other methods. Dariusz Standerski, a state secretary at the Polish Ministry of Digital Affairs, welcomed this approach, stating, “I want to have a law that can be enforced. Otherwise, it is just theory.”
These efforts to restrict social media have drawn reactions from prominent figures. Elon Musk, owner of X, labeled Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez a “tyrant” and “traitor to the Spanish people” in response to Sánchez’s pledge to pursue a ban. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened retaliatory measures if the European Union approves further sanctions or regulations on social media.
Critics point out the technological complexities of age verification and the possibility of bypassing restrictions with VPNs. Concerns have too been raised that broad regulations could infringe on the right to privacy. Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, argues that Sánchez is attempting to turn Spain into a police state under the guise of protecting children, expressing fears about mass data collection and loss of anonymity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Australia doing regarding social media and age verification?
Australia is requiring tech firms to verify the age of their users, with substantial fines for non-compliance since December of last year.
What do surveys indicate about public opinion on banning social media for young people?
A survey from June 2025 showed significant support for banning social media for children under 14, with 50 percent in Germany and 85 percent in France favoring such a ban.
What are tech companies proposing as alternatives to a complete ban?
Companies like Meta and TikTok suggest stricter age verification processes through app stores, such as Apple and Google.
As governments and tech companies grapple with these challenges, what balance can be struck between protecting young people online and respecting individual freedoms?
