Canada Moves to Ban Social Media for Children Under 16, Tighten Rules on AI Chatbots

Canada has introduced landmark digital safety legislation proposing a social media ban for children under 16 while imposing stricter regulations on AI chatbots, aiming to strengthen online protections for young users.

June 11, 2026 | Ottawa

The Canadian government has unveiled sweeping digital safety legislation that would prohibit children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms unless companies meet strict safety standards established by regulators. The proposed law also introduces new oversight measures for artificial intelligence chatbots, reflecting growing concerns over the impact of digital technologies on young people.

Under the proposed framework, social media companies would be required to demonstrate that their platforms provide adequate protections for minors in order to qualify for exemptions from the age-based restriction. The legislation would establish a new digital safety regulator responsible for monitoring compliance and enforcing safety requirements across online platforms.

The bill further seeks to regulate AI chatbots by introducing standards designed to reduce potential harms and ensure safer interactions for users, particularly children and teenagers. Developers of AI-powered services would be expected to implement safeguards and comply with oversight measures established by the proposed regulator.

Canadian officials argued that social media platforms and AI systems are increasingly influencing the mental health and development of young people. The government said the legislation aims to create a safer online environment while encouraging healthier social interactions and reducing exposure to harmful content.

Companies found violating the proposed rules could face substantial penalties, including fines of up to 3 percent of global annual revenue or C$10 million, whichever amount is greater. Authorities believe strict enforcement measures will encourage technology firms to prioritize user safety and accountability.

The proposal places Canada among a growing number of countries taking action to protect children online. Similar measures have been introduced or considered in nations including Australia and several European countries as governments respond to concerns about social media addiction, online harms and the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence technologies.

The legislation must still pass through Parliament before becoming law, but it is expected to generate significant debate over digital rights, child safety and the future regulation of emerging technologies in Canada.

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