Norway considers raising age limit for social media consent amid Denmark’s privacy law challenges

On January 1 of this year, Denmark implemented a change in its privacy legislation, raising the age limit for consenting to personal data use from 13 to 15. A similar proposal is now being considered in Norway, aiming to keep children under 15 off social media. However, the Danish law has not achieved its intended effects, as several major social media platforms, including Snapchat and TikTok, have maintained their previous age limit of 13, claiming the new law does not apply to them.

Tobias Judin, head of the international section at Norway’s Data Protection Authority, expressed concerns about the impact of such changes in Norway, given that they have not worked as anticipated in Denmark. He emphasized that the privacy laws do not impose an outright age limit for social media. Instead, Norwegian lawmakers have the option to establish their own age restrictions if desired.

The Norwegian government aims to block access to social media for those under 15 years of age. Current proposals would allow only individuals over 15 to consent to the use of their personal information without parental approval. Nonetheless, consent may not always be a requirement, as some data processing activities do not necessitate it under privacy laws.

Children and Family Minister Kjersti Toppe insisted that despite differing experiences in other countries, the proposed law holds independent value. She believes it addresses the need for stronger protection of children’s privacy and ensures that children under 15 require parental consent to use social media.

Despite skepticism from child rights advocates about the potential effectiveness of the law, Toppe maintains that the conversation around a 15-year age limit is necessary and has prompted broader awareness, including engagement from youth.