Sweden is exploring the implementation of Australia-style social media age limits to curb the online recruitment of children by criminal gangs. Authorities fear that social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat are being used as tools to lure minors into organized crime.
Social Media: A Gateway to Criminal Networks
According to Swedish police, gangs often make their first contact with children through social media platforms. These interactions then shift to encrypted messaging apps like Signal and Telegram, where illicit activities can be planned away from public scrutiny. Police reports highlight that these platforms allow communication “without much insight from others.”
Sweden has seen a significant rise in gang-related crime, with 11% of youth involved in gangs, according to the 2024 International Self-Report Delinquency Study. Authorities are increasingly concerned about the ease with which minors can be recruited online.
Collaborative Efforts and Policy Discussions
Sweden is already working with Denmark to pressure tech companies into cracking down on advertisements promoting gang recruitment. The Swedish government is now considering following other countries in setting stricter social media age limits.
Norway recently proposed raising the minimum age for social media use from 13 to 15 years, while still allowing parents to provide consent for younger children. Similarly, the UK and France have introduced regulations requiring parental consent or stricter age verification before social media accounts can be created.
Australia Leads the Way with a Total Ban
Australia has gone a step further by proposing a comprehensive ban on social media for children under 16 years old. This measure aims to protect minors from online dangers and criminal exploitation.
Sweden’s consideration of similar policies reflects a growing international movement to address the risks associated with youth social media use, particularly in relation to organized crime and online safety.