Canada is reevaluating its proposed restrictions on social media use for those under 16, considering whether to include gaming platforms with online communication features within the scope of regulation. The government has stated it has no intention of completely preventing young people from playing games; the focus of the discussion is on specific communication aspects.
In June this year, the Canadian government introduced the Safe Social Media Act, which plans to prohibit individuals under the age of 16 from holding social media accounts unless platforms can demonstrate that they have provided adequate safety protections. Gaming platforms were not included in the initial proposal.
During the parliamentary debate on October 21, some members questioned why platforms like Roblox and Minecraft, which allow children to interact online for extended periods, were excluded. Marc Miller, Canada's Minister of Identity Affairs, responded that he would consider addressing certain aspects within games, particularly the risks associated with communication between children and adults.
Measures currently under discussion include strengthening age verification, enhancing parental controls, and restricting messaging between specific age groups. Miller stated that he has discussed improving safety systems with gaming companies and warned that platforms failing to protect young users could face further regulation. The relevant proposals are still under consideration, with no final rules or implementation dates yet established, and there is no proposal for a comprehensive ban on Canadians under 16 playing Roblox or Minecraft.