Egypt’s National Council for Childhood and Motherhood has introduced strict “red lines” to protect children from online risks, banning the sharing of minors’ images and personal data and criminalising cyberbullying, extortion, and digital exploitation. The guidelines also prohibit digital communication with children outside officially approved channels and restrict exposure to harmful or age-inappropriate content.
The move comes as Egypt’s parliament begins drafting legislation to regulate children’s access to social media and digital applications, reflecting rising concern over digital addiction and its psychological and behavioural effects. The Council called for a balanced supervision model that allows children to benefit from the internet while ensuring strong monitoring, prevention, and awareness among families and institutions.
Parents and schools were urged to take primary responsibility for safeguarding children, monitor early warning signs, and intervene promptly. Medical and psychological experts warned of risks linked to excessive device use, including anxiety, isolation, poor academic performance, and physical health issues, stressing that awareness and guided use are more effective than outright bans.
