WSJ Tech News Briefing · Wednesday, September 16, 2026
The European Commission is set to propose a 'Kids Act' aimed at protecting children from the negative impacts of social media, such as mental health issues and sleep deprivation. Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen stated that the act will restrict access for children under 13 and limit it for those aged 13-15 under parental supervision. Online platforms will also be required to ensure safety for older minors.
“Children are pulled ever deeper into feeds designed to keep them scrolling. What we are witnessing is a great capture of our children. A capture of their attention, their focus, their minds.”
“Under the plan's children younger than 13 wouldn't have access to social media, while those between 13 and 15 would get limited access under parental supervision.”
“And online platforms would be obliged to ensure they are safe for young people older than that.”