20.02.2026 15:33
The Personal Data Protection Authority (KVKK) has initiated an ex officio investigation regarding the platforms TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X, and Discord to protect children from potential risks they may encounter in the digital environment.
The Personal Data Protection Authority (KVKK) has taken an important step towards protecting children's personal data in social media usage. In a statement from the institution, it was noted that actions were taken in line with the principle of "the best interests of the child," and it was reported that the processes of processing data belonging to children on digital platforms are being scrutinized.
MEASURES TO BE EVALUATED
The statement expressed that a decision was made to initiate an ex officio review by the Personal Data Protection Board regarding TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X, and Discord to prevent potential risks that children may encounter in the digital environment. Within the scope of the review, it will be evaluated how children's personal data is processed on these platforms and what security measures are implemented.
NEW MEASURES ON THE AGENDA
Recent public statements indicate that regulations such as social media restrictions for those under 13 and parental consent requirements for users under 16 are being considered. Authorities are focusing on strengthening age verification systems and more stringent monitoring of algorithms targeting children on platforms.
On the other hand, it is planned to impose additional responsibilities on social media platforms to remove harmful content aimed at children more quickly and to detect risky accounts. In this context, it is aimed to create a model specific to Turkey by examining international examples.
WHAT DO EXPERTS SAY?
Experts emphasize that legal regulations alone will not be sufficient; families, schools, and technology companies need to act together. It is stated that instead of completely banning children from digital environments, conscious and controlled usage should be supported.
Psychologists point out that intensive social media use at an early age can have negative effects on attention span, self-perception, and academic success. Educators suggest that digital citizenship and media literacy courses should be more comprehensively included in the curriculum.