The Spanish government has ordered a formal investigation into major social media platforms over the alleged circulation of artificial intelligence-generated child sexual abuse material, intensifying its efforts to combat online harm and strengthen child protection.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that prosecutors had been directed to investigate X, Meta, and TikTok over the reported spread of the illegal content.
In a statement posted on his official X account, Sánchez criticized the platforms for what he described as inadequate safeguards for minors.
“These platforms are undermining the mental health, dignity, and rights of our children,” he stated, adding that the government would not tolerate impunity among major technology companies.
The move represents one of Spain’s most forceful actions to date against global tech firms accused of failing to curb harmful content, particularly as advances in artificial intelligence make it easier to create and distribute exploitative material.
Earlier this month, the Spanish government unveiled a set of measures aimed at tightening online safety regulations. Among the proposals is a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, a policy officials argue is necessary to limit exposure to harmful and exploitative content.
The investigation will assess whether the platforms violated Spanish laws designed to protect minors and prevent the dissemination of illegal material, especially content generated through AI technologies.
Spain’s action adds to mounting regulatory pressure across Europe on technology companies to strengthen oversight mechanisms and ensure safer digital environments for children.
