Abstract:
Canada is re-evaluating proposed restrictions on social media for under-16s and considering whether to include gaming platforms with online communication capabilities within the scope of regulation. The government has stated that it has no intention to completely prevent young people from playing games, and the discussion focuses on some communication aspects.
The Canadian government proposed the Safe Social Media Act in June this year, which plans to prohibit people under the age of 16 from holding social media accounts unless the platform can prove that it has provided adequate security protection. The gaming platform was not included in the original plan.
During the parliamentary debate on October 21, some members questioned why platforms that allow children to interact online for a long time, such as "Robulus" and "Minecraft", were excluded. Canadian Identity Minister Mark Miller responded by saying he would consider addressing certain aspects of the game, particularly the risks posed by children communicating with adults.
Possible measures currently being discussed include tightening age verification, adding parental controls, and restricting messaging between certain age groups. Miller said he has discussed improving security systems with gaming companies and warned platforms that failed to protect younger users could face further regulation. Relevant plans are still in the consideration stage, and there are no final rules and implementation dates. There is no proposal to completely ban Canadians under the age of 16 from playing "Robolos" or "Minecraft".
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