A new bill has been tabled in the Senate seeking to restrict social media use by individuals under the age of 16.
The proposed legislation, titled the Social Media (Minimum Age for Users) Bill 2025, states that children below 16 will not be allowed to create or use accounts on major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, YouTube, Snapchat, Bigo Live, and Threads.
The bill makes it the responsibility of social media companies to prevent underage users from signing up. Companies that fail to comply could face fines ranging from Rs50,000 to Rs5 million.
It also suggests a six-month imprisonment penalty for anyone found guilty of granting underage children access to social media accounts. However, the bill clarifies that platforms will not be penalized in cases where no conclusive evidence is available.
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The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will be tasked with enforcing the law, including blocking underage accounts and issuing rules and regulations. In cases where the law is unclear, PTA will have the final authority to determine procedures and implementation mechanisms.
If passed, the legislation would significantly change digital access for children in Pakistan, sparking debates about online safety, freedom of expression, and parental responsibility.
