Turkey's DMM warns of fraud regarding social media age verification

The Center for Combating Disinformation (DMM), under the Presidency's Communications Directorate, has issued a warning regarding cyber fraud attempts linked to upcoming social media age verification regulations. Scammers are reportedly using deceptive SMS, emails, and social media links with messages such as ‘Your account will be closed’ or ‘Verify your age immediately’ to target personal and financial information.

The new regulation, set to take effect on November 1, 2026, aims to protect children in digital environments and secure personal data. Age verification will be conducted exclusively through an ‘age verification token’ obtained via the official e-Devlet (e-Government) portal or mobile application. This system is designed so that no identity information is transferred to social media platforms; only confirmation of whether the user meets the age requirement is shared.

For existing social media accounts, the verification period will remain open until March 31, 2027. Authorities advise citizens to verify browser address bars, avoid clicking suspicious links, and never share e-Devlet passwords, SMS verification codes, or credit card details with any individual or institution.