Social media limits for children: 6 in 10 Russians back restrictions

As debate over limiting children's social media use continues in many countries, a VTsIOM poll in Russia found 59% support restrictions, while 82% think children will get around them.

As many countries debate age limits and restrictions on children's social media use, a poll in Russia has shown where public opinion stands. According to the VTsIOM research center, 59% of respondents support restrictions on children's social media use.

Half of respondents favor limiting children's access to harmful content without banning social media entirely, while 27% think under-16s should use social media only with parental consent. Some 51% see more benefit than harm in restrictions and 26% see more harm, while 82% believe children will get around them anyway.

Two young children looking at a phone

Respondents said parents (63%), followed by the state (13%) and internet platforms and tech companies (9%), should be mainly responsible for children's online safety. The telephone survey was conducted on Aug. 30, 2026, among 1,600 people over 18.