Australia has become the first country in the world to ban social media accounts for children under 16. As of December 10 major platforms including TikTok Instagram YouTube Facebook Snapchat X and others must block users under 16 or face fines up to AUD 49.5 million.
The law requires platforms to deactivate existing under 16 accounts and prevent the creation of new ones though some age verification methods like facial analysis behavioral tracking or optional ID checks may not catch everyone.
Supporters say the ban aims to protect childrens mental health curb cyberbullying reduce screen addiction and restore time for offline activities.
Critics warn it could limit teens voices push them onto unregulated platforms or fail to teach digital literacy.Other countries should emulate this law to allow children to live in a good Society.
Teens all over the world should be encouraged to avoid social media due to its critics and dangers if not used well.
By Newsmedia