ALBANY, N.Y. (WKBW) — The conversation about what we consume online and via social media is constantly in the spotlight, especially when it comes to our kids.
"I think we're coming to an inflection point as a society, as a people to say, hey, you know what, someone's gotta do something about it," said Arun Vishwanath, cybersecurity expert.
In New York State, there are new rules on the table to protect children online by restricting addictive parts of social media.
Watch: What to know about New York State's proposed rules to restrict social media for children
It's part of the SAFE for Kids Act, which says:
- Social media companies would have to restrict algorithmically personalized feeds
- No nighttime notifications (12 a.m. to 6 a.m.)
These rules would apply to users under 18, unless they have parental consent.
And to companies that display user-generated content and have users who spend at least 20 percent of their time on the platform’s addictive feeds.
"This is all very good, there's a lot left to be ironed out, but it's a great first step, I think," said Vishwanath, who's a father of three himself.
What if I'm over 18?
Social media companies will need to confirm that.
They'll have to ask for proof that you're over 18 by:
- Requesting an uploaded image or video
- Verifying a user’s email address or phone number to cross-check other information that reflects a user’s age
When you turn 18, you can then update your age on the platform.
Social media companies must pick an age verification method with a high accuracy rate, conduct annual testing, and retain the testing results for a minimum of 10 years.
How does parental consent work?
- Minors would have to alert social media companies that they have parental consent
- The platform can then seek verified consent from a parent
- Parents and minors can withdraw consent at any time
"The proposed rules released by my office today will help us tackle the youth mental health crisis and make social media safer for kids and families," said Attorney General Letitia James. "This is an issue that affects all of us, and I encourage parents, educators, young people, industry groups, and others to review the proposed rules and submit a comment during the public comment period.”
What are people saying?
We asked a few folks down at Canalside, and they weren't really on board.
"Parents should decide, I don't know how the state's gonna police it," said Dan Crangle from the Town of Tonawanda.
"Someone coming into your home, telling you what you can and can't do, and just walking away. It's invasive," said Chafonia Williams from Buffalo.
Dozens joined in on the conversation on our Facebook page, and some people are for it.
"I think this is great," Jennifer wrote. "Kids don't need to be on social media. They need to focus on school, reading, honing social skills, studying, focusing on after school activities... maybe if parents were actually parenting, then this wouldn't have to exist."
A public comment period on the proposed rules is open until December 1, 2025. To submit a comment on the proposed rules, email ProtectNYKidsOnline@ag.ny.gov.
Here's the full document with all of the rules.
