UAE implements social media ban for children under 15
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The United Arab Emirates has announced a social media ban for children under 15, effective Thursday, joining countries like Australia, Britain, and Canada in adopting similar measures. Social media platforms must monitor and disable accounts created by individuals under 15 within a 12-month transition period, or risk being blocked. The official WAM news agency stated that children below this age are prohibited from creating, using, or operating personal social media accounts. The resolution also bars children from accessing full platform features like social interaction, publishing, commenting, and joining public groups. Children aged 15-16 are permitted to use social media with enhanced protective measures, including content restrictions and time limits. Parents and caregivers are responsible for preventing children from circumventing age checks, and parental consent does not provide an exemption. The ban is driven by concerns over mental health, cyber-bullying, lack of physical activity, online predators, and addictive behavior. The UAE's media and telecommunications bodies have the authority to take necessary measures against non-compliant platforms, including warnings, partial or full blocking, or administrative penalties.
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