Macron says France will ban social media for under-15s if the EU doesn’t, and this announcement has sparked a wide range of reactions. It’s a bold move, certainly, and one that raises many questions about feasibility and long-term effectiveness. The idea itself stems from a growing concern about the impact of social media on young minds, particularly the potential for exposure to harmful content and the addictive nature of these platforms.
The sheer scale of disinformation spreading online is a major worry. Children, lacking the critical thinking skills of adults, are especially vulnerable to manipulative narratives and extremist ideologies. A ban, proponents argue, could offer a layer of protection against this insidious influence, shielding young people during a crucial stage of their development.… Continue reading
The FBI has opened over 250 investigations into the violent online network known as “764,” a group that specifically targets teenagers. This disturbing network uses manipulative tactics to groom and exploit young people, often through popular online gaming platforms like Roblox and Discord. The methods employed by 764 are sophisticated and deeply concerning.
One example illustrates the insidious nature of this group’s operations. A young girl, after connecting with a member on Roblox, was gradually drawn into a relationship where she was coerced into sending sexually explicit images. The threat of widespread dissemination of these images served as a tool of control.… Continue reading
A NASUWT survey of over 5,800 teachers reveals that social media contributes to deteriorating student behavior, with nearly 60% citing a negative impact. Influencers like Andrew Tate are highlighted as exacerbating misogyny and sexism in classrooms, leading to incidents of verbal abuse towards female staff and impacting male students’ interactions with females. This necessitates collaborative action between schools and other agencies to counter the harmful influence of online extremism. The issue underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to protect children from online harms.
Read More
Australia has enacted a world-first law prohibiting children under 16 from using social media, holding tech companies accountable for non-compliance with substantial fines. The legislation mandates that tech companies implement measures to prevent underage access, facing penalties of nearly $32 million AUD for breaches. While supported by many Australians and some opposition members, the swiftly passed law faced criticism for its rushed process and potential unintended consequences, such as increased isolation for young people. Despite concerns from some experts and tech companies, the government will now consult before setting a final enforcement date.
Read More
Australia’s parliament passed a world-first law banning under-16s from social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, effective next year. The legislation, aiming to safeguard children’s mental wellbeing, faced criticism for its rushed passage and mixed expert opinions on its efficacy. Social media companies face hefty fines for non-compliance, but no penalties exist for underage users or parents. Exceptions include messaging apps and educational platforms, highlighting a nuanced approach to this controversial measure.
Read More
Australia’s House of Representatives passed a bill imposing a world-first ban on children under 16 using social media, with platforms facing substantial fines for non-compliance. The legislation, supported by major parties, includes provisions to protect user privacy by prohibiting the demand for government-issued identification. While critics raised concerns about the bill’s effectiveness, rushed passage, and potential negative consequences, supporters argue it’s a crucial step towards safeguarding children online. The bill now proceeds to the Senate for final approval, where its passage is considered highly likely.
Read More
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker