New York has passed a law requiring social media platforms to display mental health warnings for young users. The legislation specifically targets platforms with features designed to maximize engagement, such as infinite scroll, auto play, or “addictive” feeds. Warning labels must appear when users under 18 first access a platform and periodically afterward, with no option to skip them. The approach is similar to health warnings on tobacco products or video games’ flashing light notices for users with photosensitive epilepsy.
Governor Kathy Hochul stated that protecting young people from the potential harms of social media features is a key priority. She emphasized the need for transparency and awareness around the mental health risks of prolonged social media use, particularly for children and teenagers.
Impact on Gaming and Mobile Marketing
The law could have implications for the gaming industry, especially mobile and web3 developers who rely on social media for user acquisition. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are frequently used to promote new games, engage audiences, and run in-app campaigns. With mandatory mental health warnings in place, developers may need to rethink how they target younger audiences and present their content.
For web3 projects, which often rely on social platforms for community building and marketing, the legislation may influence how games introduce features like token drops, NFT marketplaces, or play-to-earn mechanics. Any content that could encourage prolonged engagement may now need to be accompanied by visible warnings when accessed by underage users.
Wider Regulatory Context
New York joins other regions pursuing stricter social media regulations. California already requires warning labels on platforms, and Australia recently banned social media access for users under 16. These measures align with U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s recommendations for labeling social media platforms to increase awareness of mental health impacts and encourage safer usage.
The legislation also signals a broader trend in digital content regulation, with governments increasingly scrutinizing how tech platforms and games influence younger audiences. For developers, this could mean adjustments to feed algorithms, auto-play features, and engagement-driven mechanics to comply with new rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is New York introducing social media warnings?
The law aims to protect young users from features that encourage excessive social media use, such as infinite scroll or auto play, which can impact mental health.
Which platforms are affected?
Any social media platform offering feeds or features deemed “addictive” will be required to implement the warnings.
How are warnings displayed?
Warnings appear when underage users first access a platform and periodically afterward, without an option to bypass them.
Does this affect gaming content on social media?
Yes. Marketing campaigns for mobile and web3 games often use social platforms to reach young audiences. Mandatory warnings may change how games are promoted or how engagement-driven features are presented.
Are other regions taking similar steps?
California requires warning labels on social media, and Australia has banned access for users under 16. These moves reflect a growing global focus on online safety for younger users.
Could this influence web3 and play-to-earn games?
Yes. Platforms used for community engagement, token distribution, or NFT promotions may need to adjust messaging and features to comply with the warnings when underage users are involved.