Italians sue social networks: age limits ignored, children manipulated

A group of Italian families has filed a lawsuit against Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. The parents accuse the technology companies of failing to comply with age restrictions and using addictive algorithms that they believe are harmful to children's mental health.

The lawsuit demands that the platforms introduce stricter age verification systems for users under the age of 14, as required by Italian law.

In addition, they are demanding the removal of manipulative elements and greater transparency about the risks of excessive use of social networks.

A lawyer representing the families together with the Italian Parents Movement explained that the aim was to “stop behavior that harms a large number of children.”

Meta responded with a statement saying that the safety of young users is a priority. As part of “Teen Accounts,” contact options with minors are already restricted, time spent on the platforms is reduced, and measures are in place to prevent young people from lying about their age. TikTok did not respond to a request for comment.

(reuters, max)