Turkey reviews children’s data handling as identity checks planned for social platforms
Regulators widen attention on children’s digital safety as Turkey considers identity checks and faster intervention powers that may narrow online debate instead of improving protection.
The data protection authority of Turkey has opened a new review into how major social media platforms manage children’s personal data.
A decision that places scrutiny on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X and Discord as Ankara prepares legislation that would expand state authority over digital activity instead of relying on existing rules alone.
Regulators aim to assess safeguards for children and ensure stronger compliance with local standards.
The ruling party is expected to introduce a family package that would require identity verification for every account through phone numbers or the e-Devlet system. Children under 15 would not be allowed to create profiles and further limits could apply to users under 18.
A proposal that would also allow authorities to order the rapid removal of content deemed unlawful without waiting for court approval, while platforms that fail to comply may face penalties such as phased bandwidth reductions.
Rights advocates warn that mandatory verification and broader enforcement powers could reshape online speech across the country. Some argue that linking accounts to verified identities threatens anonymity and could restrict legitimate expression instead of fostering safety.
Turkey has already expanded online oversight since 2016 through laws that increased the government’s ability to block websites, require content removal and oblige major platforms to maintain a legal presence in the country.
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