Icelandic authorities call for stricter social media regulations to protect children

Australian authorities are planning to implement new regulations governing the use of social media by children and teenagers. Skúli Bragi Geirdal, a project manager at the Media Authority, emphasizes that society must take action since major corporations do not adequately protect their consumers.

Geirdal notes that current social media platforms set their own rules regarding when children can start using their services, but these guidelines can be easily circumvented. In addition, he highlights that children as young as thirteen can provide informed consent for the collection of their personal data, a practice he finds concerning, given that children often struggle to understand the implications of such agreements.

He advocates for leveraging European legislation that could provide tools for Icelandic authorities to confront social media companies effectively. Geirdal argues that in the absence of adequate protection against harmful content, it is the responsibility of parents and the government to intervene. He points out that companies use various tactics to encourage increased usage of their platforms and that while limiting screen time is reasonable, it should not be seen as inherently harmful.

Referring to technology, he likens smartphones and screens to sugar—harmless in moderation but potentially damaging when consumption becomes excessive. Geirdal stresses that the immediate use isn’t harmful, but it’s the excessive engagement that leads to negative consequences.