EU prepares charges against Meta over features that hook children on Facebook, Instagram
European regulators are set to formally charge Meta over Facebook and Instagram features — including infinite scroll and algorithmic rabbit holes — that allegedly hook children and put their well-being at risk. Under the Digital Services Act, fines could reach 6% of Meta's global revenue. Here's what's at stake.
NEWS
6/26/20261 min read
The European Commission is moving to formally accuse Meta of deploying addictive features on Facebook and Instagram that could harm children — an escalation of a probe launched in May 2024 under the Digital Services Act (DSA), Bloomberg reported.
The DSA requires major online platforms to assess and mitigate risks faced by minors. Regulators are zeroing in on features such as infinite scrolling and algorithm-driven recommendation systems, which they say create so-called "rabbit holes" that keep young users continuously engaged. Authorities are also scrutinizing whether Meta's age verification systems are robust enough to block underage access.
European Commission guidelines issued last year explicitly warned against addictive platform mechanics and called for measures that give younger users greater control over their digital experiences. Officials have raised concerns that children can still bypass age restrictions simply by entering a false date of birth.
Meta, which sets the minimum age for both platforms at 13, says it has introduced numerous safety tools for teens. The company would be given an opportunity to respond before any final decision is reached.
Should the Commission find that Meta violated the DSA, the company could face fines of up to 6% of its global annual revenue. Regulators could also mandate operational changes to how the platforms function.
The investigation is part of a broader international push on children's online safety. The United Kingdom and Australia have explored stricter limits on youth access to social media, while Meta faces ongoing lawsuits in the United States alleging its platform designs contribute to mental health problems among young users.
An expert panel is expected to release recommendations in July that could shape future European policy on minors' access to social media.
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