"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."
"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."
"The government says these platforms should use multiple verification methods to ensure that people using their services are older than 16. It also notes that they can't rely on users simply entering their own age. Companies that fail to comply may face penalties of up to $49.5 million AUD."
Multiple countries are restricting social media access for children and teenagers following Australia's December 2025 implementation of a ban for users under 16. These regulations target platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, aiming to mitigate risks such as cyberbullying, addiction, mental health deterioration, and predatory behavior. Australia requires platforms to employ multiple age verification methods and imposes penalties up to $49.5 million AUD for non-compliance. Denmark is pursuing similar legislation banning social media for children under 15, with potential implementation by mid-2026. Critics raise concerns about invasive age verification procedures, government overreach, and the effectiveness of such bans in addressing underlying issues affecting younger generations.
Read at TechCrunch
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