A growing number of countries are implementing or planning to restrict social media access for children and teens, citing concerns over cyberbullying, addiction, mental health issues, and exposure to predators.

Australia became the first nation to enforce such measures in December 2025, banning platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for users under 16.

France recently passed a law banning social media for those under 15, effective September 1, while Canada and Denmark are advancing similar legislation.

The Danish government plans to introduce a 'digital evidence' app with age verification tools, and the UK aims to ban platforms like Snapchat and TikTok for children under 16 by spring 2027.

Critics argue these bans may be ineffective and raise privacy concerns, but governments continue to push forward, emphasizing the need to protect young users from the risks of online platforms.The measures also include restrictions on AI tools, such as limiting 'romantic companion' chatbots to adults.

While some nations like Greece and Indonesia are targeting specific age groups, the trend reflects a global effort to address the challenges posed by social media's impact on youth.