Australia’s Social Media Ban For Under-16s: How Does It Work?

Australia has become the first nation to ban teens under 16 from social media. (Photo: Robin Worrall /Unsplash) Show Quick Read Summary is AI Generated. Newsroom Reviewed

Australia has become the first country in the world to enact a law that prevents minors under 16 years from using mainstream social media platforms. The law, which comes into effect from today, Dec. 10, mandates the biggest technology companies to identify and remove under-age users, or face penalties that can reach up to A$49.5 million.

Which Platforms Are Covered?

Ten of the world’s most widely used platforms have been ordered to enforce strict age checks. The social media platforms include Facebook, Instagram, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, Twitch, X and YouTube. Each platform must disable accounts be