Australia Introduces Social Media Ban for Users Under 16

Strategic Insights -

The Australian government will introduce new laws requiring social media platforms to verify users' ages, starting from early December. The ban will apply to platforms that meet specific criteria, including enabling social interaction and allowing users to post content. Recognized platforms include Facebook, Instagram, X, Snapchat, and YouTube, with exemptions for platforms focused on messaging, online gaming, and professional networking.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ban targets users under 16, with social media platforms expected to deactivate accounts, prevent kids from registering new accounts, check ages, and prevent workarounds.
  • Platforms will be exempt if they have primary purposes such as messaging, online gaming, or professional networking.
  • Exemptions may apply to platforms like LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Roblox, and Coursera, as well as YouTube Kids, pending assessment by the eSafety commissioner.
  • Tech companies will need to implement age assurance by December, including services like Bluesky, Donald Trump's Truth Social platform, Discord, and Twitch.
  • Age assurance may involve methods like allowing banks and mobile providers to confirm age, photo uploads, facial age estimation technology, and inferred age based on account behavior.

Statistics:

  • 10 December: The new laws effective date, targeting age-restricted social media platforms.
  • $49.5m: The maximum fine for platforms not taking "reasonable steps" to keep kids off their service.
  • 1,800% increase: Proton VPN downloads in the UK following the introduction of age verification for pornography websites.
  • 4: The number of VPN apps on the top five free apps on the Apple app store in the UK after the new laws.

Sources:

  • Josh Taylor, Technology reporter
  • The Australian government
  • The eSafety commissioner