Authorities in Sweden are raising alarms about criminal networks recruiting children through social media, sparking calls for stricter online regulations. The government is considering implementing age limits for social media platforms, inspired by measures recently introduced in Australia.
Swedish police report that gangs often first contact children on popular platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat. Once communication is established, they transition to encrypted apps like Signal or Telegram, where criminal activities are planned out of sight. A police statement highlighted how these platforms provide a “low-risk” environment for such interactions.
The urgency for action is underscored by alarming statistics. Sweden has become a hub for gang-related crimes in Europe, with 11 per cent of youths reportedly involved in gangs, according to the 2024 International Self-Report Delinquency Study.
In response, Sweden is collaborating with Denmark to push tech companies to curb advertisements aimed at luring children into violent crime. Discussions are also underway to follow Norway’s lead, where plans are in place to raise the social media age of consent from 13 to 15, while allowing parental overrides for younger users.
Other nations, including the UK and France, have already introduced regulations requiring social media companies to enforce age limits or secure parental consent.
Australia recently went further, banning children under 16 from social media entirely to enhance online safety. Sweden’s potential adoption of similar policies reflects a growing determination to protect children from the reach of criminal networks.
