Cyprus plans 15-year age limit for social media accounts

President Nikos Christodoulides has announced that Cyprus will implement a 15-year minimum age limit for creating and maintaining social media accounts. This initiative aims to protect minors from risks such as cyberbullying, digital addiction, and exposure to inappropriate content. The government plans to integrate a European Union-developed age verification tool into the national 'Digital Citizen' application by the end of the year. This technical solution will require users to verify their identity through the app, with the government coordinating with the Deputy Ministry of Innovation and other stakeholders to finalize the mechanism. A corresponding bill is being prepared, which will outline the scope, enforcement obligations for platforms, sanctions for non-compliance, and necessary transitional provisions. While proponents argue that the measure will improve child safety and mental health, some officials have noted that it may impact children's rights to digital expression and participation. The government intends to conduct public consultations, including feedback from the Commissioner for Children's Rights, to address these societal concerns before the law is fully implemented.