X Bans Accounts for Users Under 13, Introduces Stricter Youth Safety Measures

X has introduced new safety policies prohibiting the creation of accounts by children under 13 and restricting advertisements targeting users under 18.

The platform stated that these measures aim to enhance protections for young users online. Underage accounts will be protected by default, limiting visibility of their posts and restricting access to sensitive media content.

X plans to implement multiple age-verification methods where legally required to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate content.

Experts note that stronger safeguards on social media platforms are increasingly important, as studies have linked excessive use among children to issues including anxiety, depression, and reduced attention spans.

In a related development, Australia has enacted a law banning social media accounts for users under 16. The legislation mandates strict age verification by platforms and imposes heavy fines for failures to block underage users or adequately protect minors.