Greece could become first EU country to automatically block minors from gambling
Summary
Greece is preparing to automatically block minors from accessing online gambling and tobacco retail sites, and to restrict social media access for under-15s. The system will run via the state-run Kids Wallet mobile app, which verifies age at device level and creates a digital identity for children by linking official documents to parent-child accounts. A European Commission delegation is due in Athens to advise on implementation; final approval rests with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
Key Points
- Proposed measures would block under-18s from online gambling and tobacco sites; social media access would be restricted for under-15s.
- Restrictions would be enforced by Kids Wallet, a government mobile app that verifies age and filters content on devices.
- The system creates a digital identity for minors via parents’ tax ID credentials and official documents; parental consent ends at age 15.
- Greek authorities have engaged with major tech firms and will host a European Commission delegation for technical guidance, aligning the move with EU aims under the Digital Services Act.
- Greece’s approach differs from Australia’s identity-verification model by operating at the device level — blocking access even without platform logins.
Why should I read this?
Because this could change how Europe handles kids online — fast. If Greece goes ahead, it’s the first real test of device-level age enforcement at national scale. It matters to regulators, platforms, operators and parents: new rules, new tech hoops, and potential ripple effects across the EU. Short version: pay attention now, or you’ll be catching up later.
Author style
Punchy: this isn’t just local politics — it’s a potential blueprint for EU-wide protections. Read closely if you work in regulation, tech compliance or online safety.
Context and relevance
The move responds to mounting concerns about algorithmic manipulation on social media and gambling-like reward mechanics that can encourage compulsive behaviour in children. It aligns with broader EU discussions about a “digital majority age” and follows similar international steps such as Australia’s age restrictions for social platforms. For businesses in iGaming, adtech and social networks, Greece’s approach could foreshadow stricter technical and legal obligations across member states.
Source
Source: https://next.io/news/regulation/greece-automatically-block-minors-gambling/
