UK plans to block social media for children under 16, $30 mn fine for flouting rule
PTC News Desk: Under new laws introduced in Australia's parliament on Thursday, social media companies could face fines of more than US$30 million if they fail to keep children off their platforms.
The proposal would require social media companies to take measures to prevent people under the age of 16 from using sites like X, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram. Failure to comply will result in fines of up to Aus$50 million (US$32.5 million).
Australia is at the forefront of attempts to clean up social media, and the proposed age limit would be one of the world's strictest measures aimed at children.
Details on how social media companies are likely to enforce the prohibition are unclear.
The new regulations would also include strong privacy measures requiring digital platforms to erase any age-verification information they acquire.
Michelle Rowland, Minister for Communications, stated Thursday that social media companies were responsible for Australians' "safety and mental health".
"The legislation places the onus on social media platforms, not parents or children, to ensure protections are in place," she clarified.
Some companies will be exempt from the prohibition, such as YouTube, which minors may need to use for schoolwork or other purposes.
Rowland stated that messaging services (such as WhatsApp) and online gaming will be exempt.
- PTC NEWS
