The European Commission has formalized its accusation against Meta for failing to prevent children under 13 from accessing Facebook and Instagram, in violation of the Digital Services Act (DSA). Brussels demands reinforced systems to detect and delete accounts of these users, under threat of a fine of up to 6% of global turnover, approximately 8.5 billion dollars based on 2025 revenue.
Meta’s terms explicitly prohibit use by children under 13, but age controls fail: users lie about their date of birth without effective verification. The reporting tool requires up to seven clicks and rarely generates follow-up, leaving children exposed to inappropriate content.
Risks identified on Meta’s networks
Studies in the EU reveal that between 10% and 12% of children under 13 use these platforms, contradicting Meta’s internal analyses described as incomplete by Brussels. This aggravates exposure to addictive algorithms and psychological risks, a subject of historical debate since 2023 with previous investigations against TikTok and others. Vice President Henna Virkkunen stressed that the networks do “very little” despite clear evidence.
Meta’s response and legislative context
Meta defends its measures, claiming to detect and delete accounts of children under 13, and promises further actions next week. A spokesperson acknowledged the sector-wide challenge and collaboration with Brussels. This is the second DSA investigation against the firm in 18 months, following scrutiny over content recommendations.
National actions and European tool
Several countries are tightening rules: France, Italy, Denmark, and Greece set 15 years as the minimum, Spain 16. The EU is offering a privacy-friendly age verification app, ready since this month, voluntary but aligned with child protection obligations. Platforms can opt for their own systems to harmonize standards.
- Key required measures: Effective age verification.
- Automatic detection of children under 13.
- Rapid removal of unauthorized accounts.
The case highlights growing tensions between regulators and big tech. Meta has a deadline to submit arguments; if unconvincing, fines could escalate. In the Dominican Republic, where network use is growing among youth, this precedent serves as a warning regarding digital child protection. Children under 13 remain in the global regulatory spotlight.
