Under18

Under18 is a term used to refer to people who are younger than 18 years old. In most jurisdictions, 18 is regarded as the age of majority, granting full legal capacity to enter contracts, vote, join the military, and make autonomous medical decisions. The exact rights and responsibilities of those under 18 vary by country, region, and context, making “under18” a label for minors in many policies and guidelines.

Legal and social context varies widely. In many countries, minors are protected by special laws and exemptions, while certain activities such as driving, drinking, or gambling have different age limits. Age classifications can also differ for education, labor, and criminal accountability, with some places using juvenile or restorative justice approaches for younger offenders and others applying adult standards at different ages.

Uses and applications: The term appears in education, sports, entertainment, advertising, and online platforms to indicate eligibility or restrictions. Sports leagues may verify age to determine under- or over-age status. Media and marketing sometimes restrict content or sponsorship to under-18 audiences. Schools, employers, and service providers may require parental consent or guardianship arrangements for minors.

Online privacy and protection: Privacy laws often offer heightened protections for minors, limiting data collection, storage, and use. International and regional frameworks emphasize safeguarding under-18s from exploitation and harmful content while supporting education, welfare, and access to information.