The UK’s data authority is investigating Snapchat to determine if the US messaging app sufficiently prevents underage users.
Two insiders confirmed this. Earlier in March, Reuters uniquely revealed that Snap Inc, Snapchat’s parent company, had only removed a limited number of under-13 children from its UK platform the prior year.
In contrast, Ofcom, the UK’s media regulator, believes thousands of underage users remain. UK laws mandate parental consent for processing data of children below 13.
While most social media platforms mandate users be 13 or older, their success at enforcing this varies.
Snapchat did not elaborate on steps taken to minimize underage users. However, a Snap representative stated their alignment with the ICO’s objectives of age-appropriate digital platforms, emphasizing their commitment to the Children’s Code.
The spokesperson also mentioned their ongoing discussions with the ICO on this matter.
Typically, before initiating a formal probe, the ICO collects related information. This can lead to an information notice requesting internal data that might assist the investigation, before deciding on potential fines.
A study by Ofcom last year found that 60% of children between eight and 11 have at least one social media account, often by providing a fake birth date.
