Greece is preparing to introduce one of the strictest youth protection measures in Europe. It is announcing a plan to ban social media use for anyone under the age of 16. The restriction will extend further for gambling-related content. Individuals under 18 are prohibited from accessing websites that offer or promote gambling, cigarettes, alcohol, or pornography.
Device-Level Age Verification
Unlike traditional online restrictions, the ban will be enforced directly through device-level age verification systems. Security controls embedded in a child’s device will determine whether access should be allowed. If parents follow the prescribed protocols and register the user as under 16, the “Kids Wallet” application will automatically filter and block access to social media platforms.
Greek officials stress that this system is designed to provide parents with greater oversight and control. It aims to reduce young people’s exposure to potentially harmful content.
First EU Country to Take Action
This move would make Greece the first European Union member state to impose such a comprehensive ban. However, it also aligns with broader initiatives from the European Commission. The Commission has been exploring more robust ways to integrate age verification across digital platforms.
Earlier this year, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that France, Spain, Greece, Denmark, and Italy would participate in pilot programs. These programs test age-verification systems. With its new ban, Greece now appears set to be the first to put those systems into practice.
Links to Gambling Safeguards
The measure also connects to Greece’s growing efforts to tackle gambling-related harm. In early 2025, the Hellenic Gaming Commission partnered with Mindway AI. They introduced a gamified self-test tool, which allows users to voluntarily evaluate their gambling behavior. The upcoming restrictions further reinforce the country’s commitment to youth protection and responsible gaming.
A Warning from the Prime Minister
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the urgency of regulation, citing the dangers of unregulated exposure to social media. Speaking at an event in Australia, he remarked:
“We are conducting the largest uncontrolled experiment ever with the minds of our children. We do not know what the consequences will be, but we are almost certain that they will not be positive.”
By adopting these rules, Greece is positioning itself at the forefront of Europe’s debate on youth safety, digital responsibility, and gambling prevention. It sets a precedent for other countries to follow.
