These are the countries moving to ban social media for children | TechCrunch

"Australia became the world's first country to ban social media for children under 16 in December 2025. The ban blocks children from using Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, and Kick. It notably doesn't include WhatsApp or YouTube Kids. The Australian government has said these social media companies must take steps to keep children off their services. Companies that fail to comply may face penalties of up to $49.5 million AUD ($34.4 million USD)."

"Australia's regulations, along with other countries' proposals, aim to reduce the pressures and risks that young users may face on social media, which include cyberbullying, addiction, mental health issues, and exposure to predators. Of course, there are concerns about privacy regarding invasive age verification and excessive government intervention. Critics, including Amnesty Tech, have said such bans are ineffective and that they ignore the realities of younger generations."

Several countries have announced plans to restrict social media access for children and teens. Australia became the first to implement such measures in December 2025, banning under-16s from major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch and Kick while excluding WhatsApp and YouTube Kids. Companies face penalties up to $49.5 million AUD and must use multiple verification methods rather than trusting self-reported ages. Denmark plans a ban for under-15s with parliamentary support and possible mid-2026 enactment. The measures aim to reduce cyberbullying, addiction, mental-health harms and predator exposure, but critics warn of privacy risks and limited effectiveness.

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