According to officials' statements, the restrictions will only apply to social networks.
“The ban will not extend to messengers such as WhatsApp and Telegram, nor to online games like Roblox and Minecraft,” the Ministry of Culture added.
The agency has not yet provided a complete list of platforms, but clarified that all social networks operating in the country could fall under the restrictions. This means that if the draft law is adopted, the restrictions will affect services such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and VK.
Currently, the authorities are studying international experience to develop methods for verifying users' ages, including the experience of Australia.
“After discussions with the public, specific mechanisms will be developed based on international practices, including age verification, user data confirmation, and other tools for implementing the legislative norms. At the moment, the amendments are in the stage of public discussions on the internet portal ‘Open NPA,’” the ministry noted.
According to ministry representatives, social networks can pose dangers to children, as they become places for bullying and fraud. Additionally, prohibited content that negatively affects children's mental health is often disseminated on these platforms.
It is worth noting that Australia became the first country in the world to impose a ban on access to social networks for minors under the age of 16. This law has already come into effect.
