Senate introduces bill to ban social media accounts for under 16 users

ISLAMABAD: A bill to ban the creation of social media accounts by persons under the age of 16 has been introduced in the Senate.

Under the proposed law, social media platforms that violate the ban will face a fine of up to Rs. 5 million, while anyone who helps a minor create an account can face six months in prison. The PTA will be responsible for deleting all existing accounts of minors.

The “Social Media (User Age Limit) Bill 2025” was reportedly introduced by Senators Sarmad Ali and Masroor Ahsan. It imposes a legal obligation on social media companies to prevent minors from creating accounts. Violators can face fines ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 5 million. Anyone who helps a minor create an account can also be sentenced to imprisonment and fines.

The bill empowers the PTA to close existing accounts of underage users and draft rules and clarifications. The aim is to protect children from online exploitation, cyberbullying and harmful content. The government also plans to increase digital awareness among parents and children. The bill is in line with policies implemented in Australia and New Zealand.