‘Facing large fine’: Elon Musk’s X is spiraling so hard that now you’d need an ID to post memes

Ireland’s media regulator, Coimisiún na Meán, is increasing pressure on Elon Musk’s social media platform X because it is not following the age verification rules set by the country’s new Online Safety Code. These rules, which went into effect on July 21, are meant to protect children from harmful content, especially pornography and violent material.

The code applies to video-sharing platforms that have their EU headquarters in Ireland, including X, Facebook, and TikTok. According to Politico, Coimisiún na Meán’s first review of X found no proof that the platform had taken steps to meet these age verification requirements. The regulator also raised “further concerns” about X’s failure to comply, particularly regarding the lack of parental controls.

The situation is becoming more serious, with strict deadlines and possible penalties for X. Coimisiún na Meán has demanded that X provide information by July 25, warning that “further action” will be taken if the platform does not show evidence of compliance. Earlier, in June, the regulator sent a formal legal request to X, asking for details on how it plans to follow the rules. The deadline for a full response was extended to August 8. If X misses this deadline, it could face criminal charges and fines of up to 500,000 euros.

Elon Musk’s X is going through some issues

In response to the regulator’s actions, X is fighting the Online Safety Code in Ireland’s High Court, challenging some of its rules and whether they should apply to the platform. A decision on this legal case is expected on July 25. The bigger picture here is Ireland’s media law, which puts the European Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) into effect. This law has major consequences for companies with EU headquarters in Ireland, as they must follow Irish regulations.

The Online Safety Code blocks certain types of content to keep children safe online, including pornography, violent material, cyberbullying, and content that encourages self-harm or eating disorders. The main goal is to make sure platforms like X, Facebook, and TikTok have strong age verification systems in place, as required by Irish law.

Importantly, the code states that age verification methods cannot rely on simple self-declaration. Approved methods include facial age estimation and digital ID solutions that confirm a user’s age (for example, showing they are “over 18”) without sharing personal details. Basic methods like entering a birthdate or checking a box are not considered effective and are not allowed.

Adding to the pressure, the French government is reportedly thinking about labeling platforms like X, Bluesky, and Reddit as porn platforms. If this happens, they would face even stricter age verification rules in France and possibly be required to show their ID.