Facebook looks at technology that would allow under-13s to use website

Facebook is working on technology that would allow children under the age of 13 to use the website with parental supervision.

Research published last year indicated 7.5 million people under the age of 13 use Facebook, with more than five million of those under the age of 10 

The world's largest social network currently requires members to be at least 13, but millions of children simply lie about their age to gain access.

It is now considering a system which would connect youngsters' accounts to those of their parents. The parents would determine who their offspring can "friend" and what applications they could use.

The proposal, reported by the Wall Street Journal, could produce further revenue for Facebook with adults being charged for games and entertainment used by their children.

However, it would also raise further privacy concerns over Facebook. US federal law requires verifiable consent from parents before the personal data of children can be collected.

The company believes that, with children already circumventing the rules and using the website, it has little choice but to look into ways to establish controls.

Research published last year indicated 7.5 million people under the age of 13 use Facebook, with more than five million of those under the age of 10.

In a statement Facebook said: "Many recent reports have highlighted just how difficult it is to enforce age restrictions on the internet, especially when parents want their children to access online content and services.

"We are in continuous dialogue with stakeholders, regulators and other policy-makers about how best to help parents keep their kids safe in an evolving online environment."