Australia is one of the first countries to ban social media for kids and young teens. Starting December 10, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok must block users under 16 or face fines up to 28 million euros.
Snapchat was the first to respond. This week, it will require Australian users to verify their age. Users can do this by submitting ID, linking a bank account, or using a biometric photo checked by an outside agency.
Experts say that even with these strict rules, it’s unclear how effective they will be since age verification is tough. However, Meta has said it will cut off users who are under 16.
Notably, ten platforms – including Discord, WhatsApp, Pinterest, and Lego Play – were left off the initial list. The Canberra government says the list will be updated.
Snapchat warns that keeping kids off social media might lead to loneliness and push them towards unsafe apps.
This issue isn’t just in Australia. Many countries are worried about kids getting addicted to social media and are creating new rules. France, Italy, and Germany have already set age limits, while Greece is looking into measures for kids under 15.
In Norway, nearly three out of four kids aged 9–12 use social media, and 75% of people want age restrictions. In China, strict rules are already in place as Beijing aims to control what minors see online and has banned livestreams for those under 16.
