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EU Tightens Social Media Rules With Digital Services Act

The EU's new rules aim to make social media safer for kids. They focus on age verification and transparent reporting, balancing protection with digital learning opportunities.

In this image we can see a collage of pictures with a group of children and some text on it.
In this image we can see a collage of pictures with a group of children and some text on it.

EU Tightens Social Media Rules With Digital Services Act

The European Union is tightening regulations on social media platforms with the Digital Services Act. The act focuses on risk minimisation, age-appropriate settings, and transparent reporting paths. Meanwhile, experts urge balanced approaches to protect children and promote digital competencies.

The EU is working on additional guidelines and technical standards under the DSA framework. These aim to unify age verification and child protection concepts across platforms. In Germany, the Federal Center for Protection of Minors supplements these provisions with its own tests and recommendations.

Social media offers opportunities for children and adolescents, such as creative expression and learning. However, it also raises concerns about data protection and orientation. Platforms systematically collect and evaluate personal data, making legal frameworks and age ratings crucial. One-sided bans can be ineffective, as they prevent access without promoting digital competencies. Therefore, creating clear family rules and using technical settings are key to promoting security and self-responsibility.

The EU's Digital Services Act is a step towards safer and more age-appropriate social media use. By focusing on risk minimisation and transparent reporting paths, the act aims to protect children while allowing them to enjoy the benefits of social media. As platforms continue to evolve, so too must our approaches to protecting and educating young users.

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