A new report has prompted the European Commission to consider sweeping rule changes across the 27‑nation bloc. The proposal would tighten age‑verification requirements and could ultimately bar children from accessing many social‑media platforms. Officials say the move aims to protect minors from harmful content and data exploitation, while industry groups warn it could stifle innovation and free expression.

The debate is expected to unfold in the coming months as member states weigh the balance between safety and digital rights.