Are children addicted to Facebook and Instagram? The European Commission initiated proceedings

The European Commission on Thursday, May 16, to assess whether Meta, the provider of Facebook and Instagram, may have breached the Digital Services Act in areas related to the protection of minors.

The European Commission is taking on Facebook and Instagram. He will check whether the children are not too addictive

The European Commission is concerned about the fact that Facebook and Instagram algorithms may stimulate addictions in children and strengthen the so-called This is a situation in which the algorithm suggests further content similar to those we have previously viewed. This mechanism is harmful, especially if there is no control over the materials.

We are not convinced that Meta has done enough to live up to its responsibilities and reduce the risk of negative effects on the physical and mental health of young Europeans on its Facebook and Instagram platforms

– wrote Thierry Breton, Commissioner responsible for the internal market, on the X website.

Furthermore, the Commission is concerned about the age verification methods introduced by Meta. The mechanisms used for this may be insufficient and ineffective, notes the EC.

Child protection is a priority for the European Commission. Digital service providers must adapt

The Commission emphasizes that the protection of children is a priority provision of the Digital Services Act. The idea is to eliminate activities that may exploit the weaknesses and inexperience of minors and cause addictions.

The Commission will also examine whether Meta’s requirements effectively prevent children from accessing inappropriate content and ensure a level of safety and security for children. If the European Commission finds that Meta has indeed breached EU rules, it could face a fine of up to 6 percent of global turnover.