The technical framework through the “Digital Citizen,” alignment with European standards, and the decisive perspective of mental health experts on the new age limit.

The Republic of Cyprus is moving forward with the establishment of a stricter regulatory framework for the use of social media by minors, setting the minimum age at 15 for creating and maintaining accounts on relevant platforms. The government’s intention was confirmed through yesterday’s announcement by the President of the Republic, Nicos Christodoulides, on the platform X. According to the President, protecting children in the digital environment is a priority, while Cyprus is already among the European Union member states advancing through the adoption of European technical proposals for online age verification.

The government’s plan to protect minors online is in full development, with final decisions on the exact framework expected between April and May. Based on available information, the control mechanism will operate technically through the “Digital Citizen” application. The app will function as a verification tool, drawing the necessary data from the user’s ID and communicating directly with social media platforms. During account creation, a QR code will be generated. The user will be required to scan it and confirm their identity via fingerprint authentication. If the system detects that the user is under 15, access will be denied, eliminating the possibility of bypassing the restriction.

This mechanism is already being piloted at the level of the European Commission, with Cyprus among seven member states testing this technical solution. Additionally, there are reports that the government intends to present this national mechanism to the Commission for unified implementation, leveraging Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU.

The initiative follows similar moves across Europe, as countries such as Greece, France, and Austria have already imposed age restrictions. Notably, the Greek government recently announced a full ban on social media use for children under 15, set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

At the European Union level, the discussion on restricting minors’ access to social media is already active. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, recently introduced a new open-source age verification application, currently being piloted in France, Greece, Spain, Italy, Denmark, Cyprus, and Ireland. The application allows users to prove their age anonymously using a passport or ID, without revealing additional personal data to platforms. The announcement is accompanied by an initiative from French President Emmanuel Macron to initiate discussions aimed at a Europe-wide restriction plan.

This technical solution is based on the European Commission’s Age Verification Blueprint. It follows the specifications of the upcoming European Digital Identity Wallet, expected to be implemented by the end of 2026. The model allows flexibility depending on national legislation and ensures that online services receive only confirmation that the required age threshold has been met. Furthermore, the issuance and presentation of verification are handled by separate entities, preventing user activity tracking.

Regarding operational coordination in Cyprus, relevant information was provided by the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Youth, based on a recent interview with Minister Dr. Athina Michaelidou. According to these details, technical coordination for age verification falls under the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy. The Ministry of Education actively participates in a working group responsible for drafting the concept paper and developing the action plan.

Based on the same information, personal data protection will be strictly ensured in accordance with national legislation. The objective of the measure is twofold: to technically restrict access to inappropriate content for minors, and to strengthen digital responsibility among users, parents, and providers. Its effectiveness will be assessed through systematic monitoring using statistical data from services such as the Cyprus CyberSafety Helpline, reports of online bullying, research, and platform audits.

This coordinated effort involves three key bodies: the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Justice, and the Law Commissioner. Additional participants include the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection, the Cyprus Radio-Television Authority, and the Commissioner for Children’s Rights. The Deputy Ministry of Innovation also plans to initiate a public dialogue, in collaboration with the Citizen’s Commissioner’s Office, to engage with young people and understand their concerns.

Speaking on the matter, Commissioner for Personal Data Protection Maria Christofidou stated that the issue is being advanced through legislative procedures as the appropriate institutional approach. She noted that the initiative has been underway since 2025, with specific timelines, and is part of a broader European framework.

Meanwhile, Commissioner for the Protection of Children’s Rights Elena Perikleous stated that implementation is expected by 2027. She noted that, beyond a ban, the option of access with verifiable parental consent is also under consideration. Her office is participating in consultations and has already gathered input from its adolescent advisory group, with further consultation planned via the “Voice of the Citizen” platform.

Although the need to protect minors is widely recognized, she emphasized the importance of conducting an impact assessment, particularly regarding potential negative consequences for children with disabilities, vulnerabilities, or those living in remote areas. Any age limit, she stressed, should remain subject to future revision.

The upcoming legislation aligns with public concern in Cyprus, as reflected in a recent study by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights. The findings place Cyprus among the member states with the highest levels of concern, reaching 92%.

Across Europe, 89% express concern about children being approached for exploitation or exposed to violent content. Similarly, 88% are concerned about addiction risks, while high levels of concern are also recorded regarding data protection.

The study also shows broad public support for legal restrictions. Seventy-four percent of European citizens support banning access below a certain age threshold, most commonly between 16 and 18. Notably, adolescents themselves often support restrictions, frequently suggesting limits around 14 or 15.

The need for regulatory intervention is reinforced by the clinical reality observed among children and adolescents. As explained by clinical psychologist Elena Aristodemou, excessive social media use of more than three hours per day is often linked to increased anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and sleep issues in teenagers.

She highlights issues such as social comparison, cyberbullying, fear of missing out, and attention disorders. Research shows that adolescents using social media for more than three hours daily face double the risk of depression and anxiety symptoms. While girls are more affected by body image issues, boys often exhibit aggression or withdrawal.

At the same time, she notes that social media can offer benefits such as connection. The key factor is how and when it is used. Clinical experience shows that symptoms improve when usage is reduced and critical thinking is developed.

Regarding the proposed ban, she describes it as a positive and bold step grounded in real data. She emphasizes that such measures protect the developing brain during a critical stage, although they are not a complete solution. Instead, they create space for healthier habits before exposure to addictive algorithmic systems.

She also points out that the legislation addresses a protection gap against addictive platform practices, while recommending additional measures such as digital parenting education, early digital literacy programs in schools, and increased support through school psychologists.

Ultimately, the shift toward a stricter framework for social media use will test both state mechanisms and society itself. While the technical solution and legislative framework lay the groundwork, success will depend on effective digital education, parental guidance, and continuous evaluation of the evolving needs of younger generations.

Source: Offsite