Germany pushes ban on social media for under‑13s as platforms tweak teen safeguards

Germany’s family ministry is preparing legislation that would prohibit children under 13 from creating or using accounts on social‑media platforms. The proposal, presented by family minister Katrin Prien, also outlines stricter protection tiers for users aged 13‑16 and 16‑18, and suggests a ban on private phones in schools up to seventh grade. Prien argued that “a legal age limit of 13 years for independent use of social media is the right path.” The plan could be taken to the EU level if a common solution is not reached, with the aim of harmonising rules across Europe.

At the same time, Meta announced changes to Instagram’s feed algorithm to limit the repetition of similar posts for teenagers. The new system will diversify recommended content and filter high‑volume sensitive topics, part of a broader effort to reduce anxiety and other mental‑health impacts among users under 18. These platform‑level adjustments complement governmental moves to tighten digital safety for minors.

Both developments reflect growing pressure on tech companies and regulators worldwide to safeguard young users from harmful online content and addictive usage patterns.