X Blocks Account Creation for Children Under 13

The social media platform X has announced a new policy under which children under 13 years old cannot create accounts.

X stated in a release that advertisers also cannot specifically target users under 18 under this policy. The platform described the measures as "strict actions" to "protect minors."

"Although X is not specifically designed for children, we take our responsibility toward young users present here very seriously. We continuously improve our tools and policies to protect them and keep children safer," X said.

Underage accounts are protected by default, providing greater control over who can view their content, and sensitive media is restricted for minors. Where legally required, X uses multiple age verification methods to confirm or estimate users' ages and keep prohibited content away from them.

Meanwhile, findings from several recent studies indicate that more than four hours of daily use by children increases risks of anxiety and depression, social media addiction, sleep deprivation, reduced concentration and productivity, and social isolation. The studies also highlight vulnerability to inappropriate content and algorithms, with young users' accounts being quickly directed to harmful videos.