Greece is preparing to introduce restrictions on social media use for children under the age of 15, with official announcements expected within days, according to Digital Governance Minister Dimitris Papastergiou.

Speaking in a televised interview, Papastergiou said the government is finalizing measures aimed at limiting minors’ access to social media platforms, stressing that any decision must align with European Union legislation.

“It is not reasonable for children to go to sleep with social media in their hands or to live primarily in the digital world,” he said, highlighting concerns over excessive online use among young people.

EU coordination key to enforcement

The minister emphasized that Greece cannot act in isolation, noting that penalties and enforcement mechanisms must be coordinated at a European level.

He pointed out that many major platforms are headquartered in countries such as Ireland, meaning that enforcement of rules depends on broader EU-wide regulations.

Papastergiou added that platforms already have the technical ability to detect users’ real ages and should have implemented stricter age-based controls.

New tools to protect minors

Alongside the proposed social media restrictions, the government is rolling out new digital tools aimed at protecting minors in other areas.

A new application, known as “Kids Wallet,” will become mandatory for retailers and is designed to prevent the sale of alcohol and tobacco products to underage customers. Sellers must register on a government platform by mid-April, with the system applying to both physical stores and online shops.

In addition, a separate platform will require the pre-registration of school events held at entertainment venues, in an effort to strengthen oversight and limit underage alcohol consumption.

Focus on awareness and safety

Papastergiou also stressed the importance of helping young people develop critical thinking skills in an era of widespread digital content and artificial intelligence.

“The goal is for children to understand where truth ends and falsehood begins,” he said.

Smart cameras ready to launch

The minister confirmed that smart traffic cameras are also ready to be deployed, primarily at intersections to address dangerous driving behaviors such as running red lights.