Australia says the world will follow social media ban as Meta starts blocking teens
Summary
Australia is implementing a ban on social media use by under-16s starting December 10, with Meta's platforms beginning to lock out teen accounts ahead of the deadline. The move is seen as a global push to regulate Big Tech and protect children's mental health.
Key Points
- Australia's internet regulator announced a ban on social media access for users under 16, effective December 10.
- Meta’s platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and Threads have begun deactivating accounts of underage users ahead of the deadline.
- The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, supports the ban to counter harmful design features on social media affecting children.
- Governments globally are observing Australia’s law, with platforms like Meta, TikTok, Snap, and YouTube agreeing to comply despite initial opposition.
