Senate tables Social Media Age Restriction Bill 2025 to protect minors

(Web Desk): The Senate has introduced the Social Media (Age Restriction for Users) Bill 2025, aiming to ban individuals under the age of 16 from creating social media accounts.

Presented on Monday by Senators Sarmad Ali and Masroor Ahmed, the bill marks a significant move to protect minors from online exploitation, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content.

The proposed legislation places strict responsibilities on social media platforms, making it legally binding for them to prevent access by underage users. Platforms that fail to comply could face fines ranging from Rs50,000 to Rs5 million. In addition, anyone found facilitating the creation of social media accounts for minors could face up to six months in jail.

Under the bill, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will be tasked with shutting down existing accounts operated by individuals under 16. The PTA will also be authorized to formulate and enforce regulations to ensure the bill's effective implementation.

Senator Sarmad Ali emphasized that the bill aligns Pakistan with global efforts to ensure child safety in the digital space. He noted that raising digital awareness among parents and children is a key component of the initiative, which seeks to create a safer online environment for youth.

The legislation draws parallels with similar efforts in Australia and New Zealand. In 2024, Australia passed one of the world’s toughest social media regulations, requiring platforms to take “reasonable steps” to block users under 16. That bill was passed by the Australian Senate with 34 votes in favor and 19 against.