The ban, among the toughest in the world, has broad public support but has been criticized by experts who say it could have unintended negative consequences.

Summary

Australia has passed a groundbreaking ban on social media use for children under 16, the strictest of its kind globally.

Platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Reddit have one year to implement the age limit, with fines up to AU$50M for non-compliance.

Supporters cite mental health concerns, while critics argue the ban risks isolation for marginalized youth, lacks proper research, and excludes harmful platforms like 4chan.

Privacy concerns surround proposed age-verification methods. Opponents, including parents, scholars, and tech companies, argue the legislation is rushed and poorly designed, potentially exacerbating existing issues.

  • Voroxpete@sh.itjust.works
    11·
    8 hours ago

    But that’s exactly the problem, right?

    Social media platforms, forums and other online social spaces wax and wane on popularity. New ones are turning up all the time. This won’t prevent kids from socializing online, it’ll just force them to do it in the least safe places. Even if you try to regulate every online social space, it’ll just turn into a game of whack a mole.

    • yeahiknow3@lemmings.world
      1·
      8 hours ago

      So we should legalize stabbings because otherwise people will turn to “even worse” forms of violence? Surely there must be a simpler and less moronic approach to legislation.