Greece to Pioneer Social Media and Gambling Blocks for Minors
Greece is set to become the first European Union nation to restrict children's access to social media platforms and online gambling.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The policy, announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, relies on a government app called Kids Wallet to enforce controls directly on personal devices. Parents will play a central role by verifying their child's age through the app, which then filters out prohibited content.
Mitsotakis highlighted the urgency during a recent address in Australia, where he described unchecked social media use among youth as "the largest uncontrolled experiment ever with the minds of our children."
We are conducting the largest uncontrolled experiment ever on the minds of our children. We do not know what the consequences will be, but we are almost certain that they will not be positive.
How the Restrictions Will Work
The ban, which takes effect in October 2025, targets devices owned or used by minors. Once parents activate Kids Wallet and confirm a user is under 16, the app will automatically deny logins to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Teenagers aged 16 to 17 can still use social sites, but they are blocked from visiting gambling sites, online tobacco and alcohol sellers, or websites with adult content. This tiered approach avoids a blanket shutdown while zeroing in on high-risk areas, according to details shared by the Greek government.
The country drew inspiration from Australia's similar youth social media protections, and adapts it with EU-compliant age verification tech tested across five member states: France, Spain, Denmark, Italy, and itself. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has backed these pilots.
Too often mums and dads feel powerless and helpless. That they are drowning against the tsunami of Big Tech flooding their family homes. I strongly believe that parents, not algorithms, should be raising our children. Their voices must be heard. This is why today I am here to tell you that I am listening. Just as in my days, we as a society taught our children that they could not smoke, drink, and watch adult content until a certain age. I believe it is time we consider doing the same for social media.
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This policy is in line with the Hellenic Gaming Commission's ongoing efforts to promote responsible gambling, a priority for licensed operators in Greece's €1.2 billion online market. Earlier this year, in April 2025, the commission teamed up with Danish firm Mindway AI to roll out Gamalyze, a free, interactive self-assessment tool on its website.
Users can quickly assess their betting habits through a series of questions, receiving instant feedback on potential risks. This interactive tool provides a "financial and leisure health checkup," offering insights into betting behaviors and helping users make informed decisions.
The HGC leverages technology to enhance player protection. The integration of Gamalyze into the commission's website marks a significant step towards a safer and more sustainable gaming environment.
With the ban just weeks away, Greek firms are auditing apps for compatibility, viewing it as a chance to lead in player welfare rather than a reaction to penalties.
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