Mexico mandates social media restrictions and age verification to curb youth violence

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has signed a presidential decree aimed at protecting minors from harmful online content. The new regulation prohibits social media and streaming platforms from displaying or recommending violent, extremist, or illegal content to teenagers. Platforms are now required to implement robust age verification systems and parental controls within one month. This move follows a tragic school shooting in Torreón, which authorities linked to online radicalization. The decree also addresses cyberbullying, self-harm, and sexual exploitation. While the government has consulted with major tech companies like Meta, TikTok, and Google, these firms have yet to issue formal responses. This initiative aligns with broader global efforts to regulate youth digital safety, following similar legislative actions in countries like Australia. Should companies fail to comply, the Mexican government has threatened to fast-track further legislation to enforce stricter penalties and oversight.