Parental approval

THE digital age has revolutionised childhood, with social media becoming an integral part of how young people connect and communicate. Yet, this evolution brings significant risks that demand urgent action. India’s draft rules under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (2023) mandating consent of parents/guardians for minors to open social media accounts are a commendable step in safeguarding children. Globally, similar regulations are already in place. The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requires parental consent for users under 16, while the US Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) enforces stringent rules for users under 13. These measures aim to protect minors from cyberbullying, exploitation and privacy violations. The issues have also been addressed in India’s draft rules.

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The urgency of these guardrails is underscored by alarming statistics: 58 per cent of teenagers globally are daily users of platforms like TikTok, with significant exposure to harmful content. In 2023, a Delhi man exploited Snapchat to blackmail over 700 women, highlighting vulnerabilities in unregulated digital spaces. Similarly, a UK teenager’s tragic suicide after Instagram-fuelled bullying reveals the psychological impact of unchecked social media exposure.

India’s proposed rules make social media companies accountable for verifying parental consent through robust measures, empowering the guardians to guide their wards’ online interactions. To refine these rules, additional measures like AI-driven age verification, digital literacy workshops and transparent complaint mechanisms are essential. Regular audits, stakeholder feedback and alignment with global standards will further enhance the framework. By adopting these rules, India contributes to a global effort to create a safer online environment for children. In a world where digital engagement is unavoidable, prioritising the safety and wellbeing of the youngest users is not merely a responsibility but also an ethical imperative. Building collaboration among parents, educators and social media platforms is crucial for lasting change.