Greece plans to block access to social networks for users under 15 by enforcing controls at the device level through the state Kids Wallet app. Once activated by a parent or guardian, phones and tablets will automatically filter searches and block access even without login to Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube and other platforms.
Under-18 restrictions on adult content and betting
The same mechanism will bar users under 18 from online betting, and from websites selling tobacco, alcohol or hosting pornographic content.
EU coordination and timeline
Athens targets end-October for rollout. The European Commission is coordinating a common approach under the Digital Services Act, with France, Spain, Greece, Denmark and Italy piloting age verification in national apps. A Commission team will visit Athens next week to review progress and share technical know-how.
Unlike Australia’s first initiative, which will come into effect on December 10 2025, of platform-based ban on under-16 accounts, Greece’s approach relies on device enforcement, with platforms adding a second safety layer to challenge suspected under-age use.
Authorities are still assessing how to treat messaging platforms (e.g., WhatsApp) that are widely used for school and family communication.
Mitsotakis’ case for action
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis calls the move a child-protection necessity, describing social media as “the greatest uncontrolled experiment ever on our children’s minds.” Greece has already banned phones in schools and says it is technically ready; final scope and timing await political sign-off.