EU finds Meta failing to keep under-13s off Facebook, Instagram

The EU said on Wednesday Meta is failing to prevent children under 13 using Facebook and Instagram, potentially exposing them to inappropriate content — and putting the tech giant at risk of a massive fine.

The European Union has in recent months stepped up efforts to protect children online, with several member countries considering social media bans for under-16s.

The EU executive is also exploring a possible bloc-wide age limit on social media after coming under intense pressure to take broader action following Australia’s groundbreaking ban on using such platforms for under-16s.