Canada Plans an Age Barrier for Social Media

Canada intends to prohibit children under 16 from independently creating social media accounts. The measure is included in Bill C-34, the Safe Social Media Act, introduced by the federal government on June 10, 2026. For now, it remains proposed legislation rather than an active ban. Platforms could seek an exemption if they demonstrate that adequate protections for minors are in place. Government of Canada

The bill would also establish the Digital Safety Commission of Canada. Its responsibilities would include developing standards, handling complaints, reviewing platform reports and enforcing the new requirements.

The central unresolved question is how users’ ages would be confirmed. Options include facial age estimation, digital identification, verification through banks or mobile operators, credit cards and analysis of existing accounts. Meta has proposed moving verification to app stores, placing some responsibility on Apple and Google.

However, no method is universal or completely reliable. Facial estimation uses sensitive biometric information and produces higher error rates for teenagers close to the age threshold. Document and email checks could also increase the risks of data breaches and excessive surveillance.

Australia’s experience illustrates the challenge. After restrictions took effect in December 2025, platforms removed or limited millions of accounts. Nevertheless, a regulator’s survey indicated that approximately 70% of underage Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok users retained access. The Canadian Press

Ottawa must therefore find a balance between children’s safety, their ability to communicate and everyone’s right to privacy.

Do you support banning social media accounts for children under 16?