Australia imposes world-first social media ban for under-16s

TNIE online desk

Australia has enacted a groundbreaking ban blocking all users under 16 from major social media platforms.

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Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Twitch now face huge fines if they fail to remove underage Australian accounts.

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The government says the ban protects children from “predatory algorithms” that expose them to bullying, violence, and harmful content.

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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese argues social media has become a weapon for bullies, scammers, and online predators.

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Teens across Australia woke up locked out of their favorite apps, while some argue the move won’t stop determined young users.

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Parents of affected children, including those harmed by online bullying, praise the ban as an overdue step for safety.

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Tech giants warn the laws are rushed and may push young users toward unsafe corners of the internet as legal challenges loom.

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