Australia’s Social Media Ban: Millions of Young Users Face Account Lockouts
Australia has implemented a first-of-its-kind ban on social media for those under 16, prompting major platforms like Facebook and Instagram to remove underage accounts and prevent new registrations. While most platforms have confirmed compliance, enforcement faces initial challenges as some teens bypass age verification. The government acknowledges the ban’s imperfections and will gather data to evaluate its impact, including unintended consequences like children moving to less regulated areas online or using VPNs. Regulators will assess platform compliance and could seek fines, while an independent evaluation will examine the ban’s short and long-term effects.
John Q. Hosedrinker