Tenerife Council Urges Stricter Age Verification for Minors on Social Media

The Tenerife Island Council has taken a significant step in the national debate on digital safety by calling for stricter controls on minors' access to social media. The council is urging the Spanish government to implement robust age-verification systems, specifically suggesting the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet) as a way to restrict access for unauthorized users.

This push comes as digital access in Tenerife reaches near-universal levels. With 97% of households connected and over 95% of children aged 10 to 15 using the internet, the local government is concerned about the risks of an unfiltered digital environment. Data shows that seven out of ten 12- and 13-year-olds own their own devices, with 10% showing signs of technology addiction and nearly 75% reporting exposure to risks like inappropriate content or contact with strangers.

The Council’s plan goes beyond simple technical restrictions. It advocates for a comprehensive security strategy, including mandatory parental controls for those under 16 and a "digital license" system developed with the Canary Islands government. These measures align with European efforts to combat the negative effects of hyperconnectivity, which officials link to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep issues among young people.

In addition to new regulations, the initiative emphasizes the need for family awareness programs to promote responsible internet use. Supporters of the motion argue that these steps are not meant to limit rights, but to provide essential protection in a digital landscape that has long lacked effective oversight. By taking this stance, Tenerife is positioning itself as a key voice in the push for a national framework that balances technological progress with the safety of minors.