French officials eye restrictions on privacy tools after passing under-15 social media ban, sparking broader privacy debates across Europe. Following the National Assembly’s 116-23 vote on January 26 approving a ban on social media access for under-15s, Minister Delegate for Digital Affairs Anne Le Hénanff made her intentions clear on Franceinfo: “VPNs are the next topic on my list.”
The legislation requires age verification for all users by September 2026, but officials worry tech-savvy teens will simply route around restrictions using privacy tools that mask their location.
Sweeping Verification Requirements Hit Major Platforms
Age checks extend beyond TikTok to gaming, messaging, and adult sites affecting millions of users.
The verification dragnet casts wider than typical social media platforms. TikTok, Instagram, Roblox, Fortnite’s chat features, WhatsApp, Telegram, and adult sites all fall under the new rules. PornHub already blocks French users preemptively.
France plans “double anonymity” verification through third parties—specialized firms, mobile operators, or an EU Commission app involving ID scans and facial recognition. The system retains only age data, not full identity details, but every adult user must prove they’re over 15 to access these platforms.
Privacy Advocates Sound Data Security Alarms
Critics cite authoritarian overreach and point to recent breaches of age verification systems.
Privacy experts warn of a surveillance infrastructure disguised as child protection. The UK saw VPN usage spike after similar legislation, suggesting circumvention remains simple for determined users.
A 2025 hack of a US age verification app exposed sensitive data, highlighting the risks of centralized identity systems. Reddit argues these laws force “intrusive and potentially insecure verification” on users who never consented to surrendering biometric data for social media access.
Global Trend Prioritizes Safety Over Digital Rights
France joins Australia and 25 US states in restricting youth platform access despite enforcement challenges.
France’s approach mirrors Australia’s under-16 social media ban and age verification laws across 25 US states. President Macron pushed for fast-tracking, citing teen mental health risks and data showing adolescents spend 2-5 hours daily on phones.
The Senate still must approve the legislation, but the trajectory seems clear—governments worldwide are choosing paternalistic protection over unrestricted digital access, even when the technical enforcement remains questionable at best.
