Australia considers banning social media for individuals under 16 years old, reports NBC New York

Australia’s government is proposing a social media ban for children under the age of 16, a move experts are calling a “momentous step.” The ban will trial age-verification systems to block children from accessing platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Critics argue that parents cannot manage their children’s social media use on their own, and the responsibility should lie with tech companies. The ban has received mixed reactions, with some saying it could limit young people’s digital literacy skills. However, proponents argue that children can still connect online via other means such as Zoom and FaceTime, which will teach them important digital skills without exposing them to harmful social media platforms. The legislation will make Australia a global leader in protecting kids online and will push tech companies to take more responsibility for their platforms. Organizations are urging for a balanced approach to regulation, focusing on creating age-appropriate online spaces and building digital literacy to protect young people from online harm. Overall, the proposed ban has sparked a debate on how to best protect children in the digital age while ensuring they have the skills needed to navigate online spaces safely.

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