France Implements Parental Consent Law for Minors on Social Media
In a significant move to safeguard children online, France has enacted a law requiring parental consent for minors under 15 to register on social media platforms, Anadolu Agency reported. This regulation, effective from 2023, mandates that social media companies implement systems to verify whether consent has been obtained.
According to the e-Enfance Association, a staggering 82% of minors encounter harmful content online, including drug and weapon sales. The report highlights that 67% of children aged 8-10 and 86% of those aged 8-18 are active on social media in France. Alarmingly, one in four families experiences cyberbullying, leading to educational challenges and mental health issues among affected children.
Laura Morin, general director of the L’Enfant Bleu Association, emphasized the need for heightened awareness among parents regarding the risks associated with sharing their children’s photos online. She likened the dangers of unmonitored internet use to children wandering unsupervised in the streets, as online predators often disguise themselves as friends to exploit trust.
Under the new law, non-compliant platforms may face fines of up to 1% of their global revenue. Additionally, parents can request the suspension of their 15-year-old children’s accounts. Morin advocates for proactive parental engagement, urging families not to rely solely on digital controls but to maintain open communication about online safety.
As the digital landscape evolves, France’s initiative reflects a growing commitment to protecting children’s rights and well-being in an increasingly connected world.
