reliable tools to verify users ages, replacing the self-declared age checks widely used today. Companies that fail to comply could face heavy fines, while executives may be held accountable for repeated violations involving illegal or hateful content. Spain’s proposal follows similar moves elsewhere. Australia has already approved legislation banning children under 16 from major social media platforms. While France and Denmark are pursuing tougher enforcement of age limits and pressing for stronger European Union wide regulation. The Spanish government said it is also considering measures to restrict the use of algorithms that amplify illegal or harmful content, particularly material affecting children. Officials argue that engagement driven recommendation systems can contribute to mental health problems, cyberbullying and exposure to sexual or extremist material. The proposal must still be approved by parliament, where Sánchez’s minority government will need support from other parties. While several opposition groups have backed tougher protections for minors online, critics have raised concerns about privacy, enforcement and the technical feasibility of large scale age verification. Technology companies are expected to push back against the plan, warning that mandatory age checks could require extensive data collection and raise user privacy risks. If approved, the measures would represent one of Europe’s strictest regulatory frameworks governing children’s access to social media and could add momentum to broader efforts to regulate digital platforms across the EU. Source: AP News