Three in five Americans back tougher oversight of social media companies

15:15

By: Sahili Aya

Three in five Americans back tougher oversight of social media companies

A majority of Americans support stronger government oversight of social media platforms, with broad bipartisan backing for measures aimed at protecting younger users, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll.

The survey found that 61% of Americans believe social media companies require stronger regulation of their business practices. Support was recorded among voters across the political spectrum, suggesting that concerns over the impact of online platforms extend beyond traditional partisan divisions.

Strong support for age verification

One of the most widely supported measures involves restricting access for younger children.

According to the poll, 66% of respondents support laws requiring social media platforms to verify the ages of users under 16.

The issue has become increasingly prominent as governments and lawmakers examine how platforms should handle minors and what responsibilities technology companies should have toward younger users.

The survey also found that 85% of Americans believe social media can be addictive for children, highlighting the extent of public concern about young people's use of online platforms.

Bipartisan backing for tighter rules

Support for greater oversight crossed party lines.

Some 71% of Democrats surveyed said social media companies need stronger government supervision, compared with 62% of Republicans.

The findings indicate that regulation of major online platforms has become an issue capable of attracting substantial support from both sides of the political divide.

Legal pressure intensifies

The poll comes as major technology companies face increasing scrutiny over their treatment of younger users.

Meta Platforms and Google's YouTube are among the companies confronting legal challenges related to allegations concerning the effects of their products on children and teenagers.

A trial involving allegations that Meta deliberately designed its services to encourage addictive use among young people is expected to begin this week.

Meta has faced growing questions over how its platforms affect minors, while technology companies more broadly are being pressed to demonstrate that their services provide adequate safeguards for younger audiences.

Public expectations could shape future policy

The survey suggests that Americans are increasingly receptive to government intervention in the social media sector, particularly where children are concerned.

With age verification receiving support from two-thirds of respondents and a large majority describing social media as potentially addictive for children, policymakers may face growing pressure to establish clearer rules governing access and platform responsibilities.

The Reuters/Ipsos survey was conducted over six days through August 3, at a time when debates over online safety, children's access to social media and corporate accountability are intensifying across the United States.