A new Eurobarometer survey shows that Europeans are deeply concerned about the risks children face on social media and support stronger EU action to improve online safety.

Cyberbullying is the biggest concern, cited by 71% of respondents, followed by online grooming and sexual exploitation (70%), exposure to harmful content such as violence or extremism (69%), and misuse of children’s personal data (69%). Many also worry about children being recruited for illegal activities (64%) and addictive platform design (60%).

Nearly two-thirds (63%) support EU rules restricting children’s access to social media based on age, with 36% favouring an outright ban below a certain age and 27% backing delayed access. Only 13% believe responsibility should remain solely with parents and schools.

The survey also found strong support for tougher action against online disinformation. Europeans favour stricter penalties for illegal online content (44%), stronger obligations for digital platforms (40%), clear labels for AI-generated or manipulated content (38%) and a minimum age for social media access (37%).