As a parent, I’m deeply concerned about the safety of children online. I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects that online bullying and grooming can have on children and their mental well-being. It’s heartbreaking to see young people fall victim to the dangers lurking on social media platforms.

Despite age restrictions, it is alarmingly easy for children under the minimum age to create accounts. This exposes them to inappropriate content, predatory behavior, and cyberbullying, putting their mental health and safety at serious risk.

To combat this, I am urging social media platforms to require verification of age through ID checks for all new and existing accounts. This measure would help ensure that users are of appropriate age and protect children from digital harm.

Studies show that around 1 in 3 young people worldwide have experienced cyber threats or harassment. According to a survey from UNICEF, more than a third of young people in 30 countries reported being victims of online bullying. This reinforces the urgent need for more stringent safeguards.

By implementing ID verification, social media companies can effectively prevent underage access, safeguarding kids from harmful interactions and content. Other industries, such as alcohol and tobacco sales, already implement such verifications to protect minors, suggesting it’s both feasible and effective.

Parents, educators, and child welfare organizations are calling for action. We cannot ignore the growing issue of child safety online any longer. Let's take a proactive step to protect our children.

Please sign this petition to urge social media platforms to implement age verification measures through mandatory ID checks. Together, we can create a safer digital world for our children.