Greece Blocks Underage Access to Gambling and Adult Content
Greece is taking a decisive step to shield minors from online risks, putting gambling in sharp focus. The government has unveiled plans to implement a new restriction on youth internet use, extending protections beyond social media to cover gambling, alcohol, tobacco, and adult content. Using a parental control tool called the Kids Wallet app, Greece becomes the first EU country to enforce device level safeguards.
Two-Tier Age Restrictions
The policy introduces distinct age barriers children under 16 will be restricted from all social media platforms, while those under 18 will be barred from gambling and other adult content online. Greece is participating in an EU Commission pilot project alongside France, Spain, Denmark and Italy to test advanced age verification systems.
Device-Centric Enforcement
Instead of relying on operators to enforce limits, the restrictions are applied directly to devices. Parents activate the Kids Wallet app on smartphones and tablets, which then blocks access to content deemed harmful, including gambling, alcohol, pornography and social media platforms.
Consequences for Gambling Platforms
This framework effectively prohibits minors from accessing gambling content, encompassing both licensed and unlicensed sites. Operators, who have traditionally managed age verification, will now be required to integrate with device based controls, reshaping marketing and engagement strategies.
EU-Wide Significance
Greece’s initiative aligns with broader European digital identity and verification efforts, potentially setting a benchmark for EU nations. If successful, similar device level requirements could spread across the continent, creating new compliance standards for operators in multiple markets.
Early Prevention and Responsible Gambling
The measure builds on earlier initiatives, including the Mindway AI self assessment tool, to promote responsible gambling. By blocking access before gambling begins the policy emphasizes prevention rather than solely monitoring active players.
Framing Gambling as a Public Health Issue
By linking gambling restrictions with alcohol, tobacco and adult content, Greece reframes the industry within a public health and youth protection framework. Operators will face increased scrutiny on marketing strategies, with digital exposure to minors under close regulation.
Looking Ahead
This device based system may become a new model across Europe, requiring operators to upgrade compliance systems, technology infrastructure and marketing practices. While parents initially enable the restrictions, future regulations may shift responsibility to device makers or network providers to enhance enforcement.
Greece’s policy demonstrates a multi-layered approach to digital regulation, combining age verification, responsible gambling and youth protection. As the first EU nation to adopt this system, Greece may influence future legislation, setting a standard for controlling gambling access and safeguarding minors online.
