Greece to block social media access for under-15s from 2027
Greece’s parliament has passed a law barring children under 15 from using social media, which the government says is needed to protect children online. The measure takes effect on 1 January 2027 and is among the first such bans in the European Union.
It covers platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X, which must use proportionate, reliable age checks or face fines under the EU’s Digital Services Act. Parents will be asked to use state-backed Kids Wallet or Gov.gr apps, designed to confirm age with limited disclosure of personal data. Minority parties opposed the bill; Greece previously banned mobile phones in schools in 2024, while a proposed EU-wide law sets a ban only for under-13s.
In short
- Greece will ban under-15s from social media from 2027.
- Platforms must verify users’ ages or risk EU fines.
- Parents will use state-backed apps to block access.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that a minimum age can reduce children’s exposure to harmful content, addictive design and online pressures before they are ready to manage them. A clear legal duty on platforms, backed by age checks and a privacy-conscious state tool, may be more effective than leaving families to enforce limits alone.
The case against
Opponents argue that a blanket ban may restrict young people’s access to social connection, information and supportive communities, including for those who rely on them. Age checks can also create privacy and enforcement risks, while critics may prefer targeted safety rules and parental guidance over a broad prohibition.
Explained simply
Social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X let people share posts, messages and videos. Governments have increasingly debated how to protect children online while deciding what age limits and checks platforms should use.
In the European Union, the Digital Services Act sets rules for online platforms, including possible fines for failing to meet their obligations. Greece has also restricted mobile phone use in schools, and an EU-wide proposal would set a social media age limit for children under 13.
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Originally published by Engadget as “Greece enacts social media ban for kids under 15”.