Canada Considers Bringing Gaming Platforms Under Digital Safety Bill

The Canadian government is considering including gaming platforms in its proposed digital safety legislation to protect children from online exploitation. Identity Minister Marc Miller has signalled the possibility of expanding the proposed law, which currently includes a ban on social media accounts for children under 16.

Child safety organizations and parents have raised concerns about platforms such as Roblox and Discord, where children and adults can communicate freely, potentially exposing young users to exploitation.

Miller said he has met with representatives of several gaming companies and warned that platforms could face regulation if they fail to introduce adequate child safety measures.

The minister clarified that the government does not intend to ban gaming platforms. However, additional rules could be introduced, including age verification and parental controls, as well as restrictions on messaging access between certain age groups.