France is considering designating social media platform X as a site hosting pornographic content, a move that could significantly limit its accessibility—especially for minors.

What’s Changing?

If approved, users in France would need to verify their age to access X, effectively banning anyone under 18. Reports from POLITICO and France 24 suggest the platform could face the same restrictions as adult websites.

“Since 2024, X has explicitly allowed pornographic content. This means it must be regulated accordingly,” said Clara Chappaz, France’s Digital Minister, in a statement to POLITICO.

France’s New Rules for Adult Sites

Starting June 7, all pornographic platforms in France must implement strict age verification, requiring users to submit credit card details or government ID. Critics argue these measures risk user privacy, but non-compliance could result in fines, search engine delisting, or outright bans.

X’s Possible Workaround

Analysts note X could avoid these restrictions by banning adult content entirely—a move that would align it with platforms like Instagram and TikTok. However, this would mark a major shift in the platform’s content policies.