Ramona Pop, the chairwoman of Germany’s Association of Consumer Centres, warned that a social‑media ban relying solely on rigid age limits would not solve the problem. She expressed concern that the current debate could end up focusing only on age restrictions-restrictions that, as the example of Australia shows, are easy to bypass.
Instead, Pop urged regulators to compel platforms to overhaul their harmful business models. She does not limit her criticism to the big names Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok; she points out that many other sites use targeted mechanisms that keep both minors and adults engaged. She cited endless scrolling and autoplay videos that make it difficult for users to stop using the service, as well as manipulative tactics combined with potentially dangerous content.
Among the content Pop finds especially risky are posts from self‑styled “health experts” who give diet advice that can push girls toward eating disorders, including anorexia. She also warns that AI‑driven suggestions for meals and diet plans may not always be health‑safe and can reinforce negative behaviours. Pop insists such material must be regulated by law, with safe default settings that protect all users.