Digital Market Shift: Greece Mandates Age Verification for Under-15s
A new Greek law forces major social platforms to implement strict age controls for minors, setting a precedent that may influence broader European regulatory frameworks and compliance costs.
By Sofia Ramirez ·
Greece has officially enacted a legislative framework that prohibits social media access for children under the age of 15, with the rules set to take effect on January 1, 2027. This move marks a significant regulatory step for the European Union, positioning Greece as a pioneer in enforcing digital age limits before a comprehensive EU-wide standard is finalized. The legislation targets major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X, requiring them to adopt proportionate and reliable methods for verifying user age to maintain market access.
The primary driver behind this policy is a commitment to data privacy and consumer protection, which directly impacts how tech companies manage user identity. The state requires the use of specific digital tools, such as the Kids Wallet and Gov.gr applications, which parents must install on their children's devices. These apps utilize age tokens, a technology designed to confirm a user's age while minimizing the collection of personal data. This approach aims to reduce the privacy burden on platforms and protect minors without requiring extensive data retention strategies that could expose users to greater risk.
Compliance with the new act is enforced through the EU's Digital Services Act, meaning non-adherence will result in financial penalties. This creates a clear cost structure for platforms that fail to implement the required verification systems. By linking local legislation to existing EU regulatory mechanisms, Athens ensures that the financial consequences of non-compliance are well-defined. This aligns the national market rules with broader continental standards, providing a stable environment for businesses to adjust their technical infrastructure.
The political landscape surrounding the bill reflects a consensus on the urgency of digital governance, despite opposition from minority parties. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis utilized his majority to pass the measure, describing it as difficult but necessary. Dimitris Papastergiou, the minister for digital governance and AI, emphasized that waiting for a perfect European law was not a viable option. He noted that a responsible government must act when children are increasingly engaging with the internet, highlighting the immediate need for regulatory intervention.
Contextually, this legislation follows Greece's 2024 decision to ban mobile phones in schools, indicating a sustained national strategy to manage youth technology usage. Opinion polls suggest strong adult support for the ban, which may influence consumer behavior and platform adoption rates among younger demographics. The government views this national action as a catalyst for broader EU policy, aiming to push the European Union toward similar standards. While the recently introduced EU Kids Act proposes a ban for those under 13, Greece's higher age threshold sets a more conservative baseline for the digital market.
Outlook for the sector suggests increased investment in age-verification technologies as nations look to replicate successful models. Australia was the first country to enact a full social media ban for children, but it has faced significant challenges in implementing effective age verification. Greece's focus on privacy-minimizing age tokens offers a potential solution to these technical hurdles. As the January 2027 deadline approaches, companies must prepare their systems to meet these new requirements, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape for digital services in the region.
Source: Engadget
