The European Commission has issued preliminary findings that Meta has violated the Digital Services Act (DSA) obligations to prevent underage children from accessing its platforms, a charge previously only reserved for adult content sites. This is the first time the Commission has applied this charge to a mainstream social media company. The action follows similar preliminary findings against four pornographic platforms in March 2026 for allowing minors to access their services by a simple click confirming they were over 18. Despite requiring users to be at least 13 years old, Meta's age verification on Facebook and Instagram relies on self-declaration, a mechanism independent research has consistently found ineffective. The finding is part of broader proceedings opened against Meta in May 2024 over child protection obligations under DSA Articles 28, 34, and 35. If confirmed, Meta could face a fine of up to 6% of its global turnover.