Greece is preparing major digital safety measures aimed at protecting minors. Starting in October 2025, the country plans to implement automatic restrictions that will block children under 15 from accessing social media platforms and prevent users under 18 from entering online casinos.
At the heart of this initiative is a mobile application called “Kids Wallet.” The app will verify a user’s age through official documents, link children’s accounts with their parents’ accounts, and automatically restrict access to certain online services. As a result, minors will simply be unable to log into social media platforms or gambling sites until they reach the required age.
The system operates directly on the device. Once activated by parents, it blocks access even if children try to bypass restrictions by using different accounts or browsers. This approach makes Greece one of the first European Union countries to implement automatic age verification on this level. The goal of the law is not just to limit access but to prevent risky behavior before it occurs. Authorities emphasize that unrestricted exposure to gambling platforms or social media with “reward-based” mechanics can have negative psychological effects on children and teenagers.
For social media companies and online casino operators, the new regulations represent a significant challenge. Businesses will need to adapt their age verification systems, implement automatic blocks, and adjust marketing strategies accordingly. At the same time, parents gain a practical tool to control and set boundaries for their children’s digital lives.
While the initiative has received broad support, critics point to potential technical challenges. Questions remain about whether devices will consistently enforce restrictions, how effective voluntary activation of the app will be, and whether these measures could excessively limit user freedom. Overall, Greece is taking a decisive step toward protecting young people in the digital world. If successful, this system could serve as a model for other European countries seeking to regulate minors’ access to online platforms. By combining technology with clear rules, the country aims to create a safer online environment while encouraging responsible use of digital services among youth.
