Ban unsafe online services for children - regulator

The media regulator has called for a ban on unsafe online services targeting children, rather than implementing an age-based social media ban. Jeremy Godfrey, Executive Chairperson at Coimisiún na Meán, proposed mandatory safety standards with non-compliant platforms barred from user access by minors. Unsafe services include those with addictive features like infinite scrolling, streaks, autoplay videos, and the ability to communicate with unknown adults. Additional recommendations encompass time limits, parental controls, and easy-to-use limitations.

During the unveiling of a new Coimisiún na Meán report on Online Safety and Children's Digital Lives, Godfrey emphasized the shared objective of shielding children from harmful online environments. Contrary to the government's preference for a blanket ban on children under 16 using social media, he advocated for a unified European approach. He clarified that his stance does not contradict the government's position.

According to the research, the majority of children believe that teaching them about online safety would be more beneficial than banning social media. Additionally, nearly half of the parents surveyed favored online safety education over a ban, as they believed a ban would prove ineffective as children would find ways to circumvent it.

The study, based on a survey of 1,002 children aged 9-17 and their parents or caregivers, will be presented at an EU presidency conference in Dublin Castle on online safety for children. The conference aims to bring together policymakers, industry figures, representative organizations, regulators, and children to discuss the collective role in creating a safer online world for children and young people.