Ireland opens formal child-safety probe into X's age checks

Ireland's media regulator, Coimisiún na Meán, has initiated a formal investigation into the social media platform X, focusing on its compliance with the country's newly enacted Online Safety Code. The probe centers on whether the platform adequately implements age assurance mechanisms and provides effective parental controls.

The regulator's action stems from concerns that X's current age verification methods may be insufficient. In particular, the regulator noted that relying solely on users' self-declared age is not considered a robust or effective safeguard. There are also worries that the platform's parental control features may lack clear minimum requirements and could be difficult for guardians to locate or use.

Under the Online Safety Code, platforms are required to ensure that minors are not exposed to content depicting pornography, extreme violence, or acts of cruelty. The investigation will assess whether X has taken adequate steps to prevent such exposure.

Should the regulator find the platform in breach of the code, it holds the authority to impose fines of up to 10 percent of X's relevant annual turnover. The investigation marks a significant step in enforcing Ireland's digital safety framework, which applies to major online services operating within the country.