Ban on social media for under-15s: the foundations of a new social norm.

Platforms’ responsibility at the heart of the scheme

Speaking on France Inter, Justine Atlan, the Association’s Chief Executive, welcomed this key milestone. Young children’s access to social media can no longer be regarded as a minor issue. The responsibility of platforms must remain at the heart of the system, so that services can be designed to suit the different age groups of their users. Age verification is, in this respect, the cornerstone of the digital majority, provided that it serves to confirm a single piece of identity information – the user’s age – without leading to systematic identification or the disproportionate collection of personal data. The protection of minors and respect for privacy need not be mutually exclusive.
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In *La Croix*, Samuel Comblez, Deputy Director-General of the Association and a child and adolescent psychologist, pointed out in particular that young people are not naive about the risks they face online, but are often the first to call for greater protection and tools to deal with platforms designed to capture their attention.
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In *Le Parisien*, Inès Legendre, Head of Advocacy at the e-Enfance / 3018 Association, emphasised that social media can also offer young people spaces for socialising, creativity and self-expression. She pointed out that a ban must be accompanied by a genuine change in the way platforms are designed, so as to offer safer and more protective services for all age groups and spaces tailored to their social needs.
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The next steps, particularly at European level, will therefore be crucial in setting out the practical arrangements for implementing the legislation, ensuring its effectiveness and, ultimately, promoting a harmonised approach across the European Union.

This law must serve as a real catalyst for social media and, more broadly, for all digital platforms, so that they can finally offer models that are genuinely suited to children’s development and protection. The digital world must be a place where they can flourish.

This also involves strengthening digital literacy to help them better understand how to use them, recognise instances of abuse or violence, and know who to turn to when they encounter a problem online.

Frequently asked questions about the ban on social media for under-15s

Who is affected by this new law?

The law is primarily aimed at children under the age of 15 who wish to create an account on a social media platform. It also applies to digital platforms, which will be required to put in place systems to verify the age of their users in order to comply with these regulations.

Which social media platforms are affected?

The law applies to social media platforms accessible to minors, such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms offering content-sharing, messaging or social interaction features. The precise list of services covered will depend on the implementing regulations and the criteria adopted by the relevant authorities.

This text does not apply to online video services such as YouTube or online video games.

When will the law come into force?

The law is due to come into force on 1 September 2026 for the creation of new accounts, subject to its approval by the Constitutional Council and its promulgation. Its application also depends on the platforms putting the necessary technical measures in place. Discussions are also expected at European level to ensure the harmonised application of these new rules.

How will the law be enforced?

Enforcement of the law will rely primarily on verifying users’ ages. Platforms will be required to implement solutions to confirm that a user is of the required age, whilst respecting data protection and privacy. The aim is to verify age only, without collecting more information than is necessary.

Are there any exceptions?

The precise arrangements will be set out in the implementing legislation. Certain specific situations may be clarified by the regulations or by the competent authorities. At this stage, it is recommended that you refer to future implementing decrees and any decisions taken at European level to ascertain the exact conditions for implementation.

At what age can children start using social media?

The law provides for a ban on access to social media for minors under the age of 15. Those aged 15 and over will still be able to create and use an account, subject to the terms and conditions specific to each platform. The final implementing arrangements will be set out in regulatory texts and any relevant European provisions.

Will parents have to give their consent?

At this stage, the precise arrangements regarding any parental consent have yet to be defined. The implementing regulations will specify whether parental consent will allow access to certain services before the age of 15, or whether the ban will apply without exception. Families are advised to follow the information provided by the relevant authorities.

How will age be verified?

The implementation of the law will rely on age verification mechanisms that platforms will be required to put in place. The aim is simply to confirm that the user is of the required age, whilst ensuring respect for privacy and the protection of personal data. The technical solutions selected must balance effectiveness, security and compliance with French and European regulations.