Reddit Added to Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban
Australia is expanding its child social media ban to include Reddit, joining platforms like Facebook, X, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and Instagram. Communications Minister Anika Wells announced the inclusion of Reddit on Wednesday.
Details of the Ban
The law, set to take effect on December 10, prohibits children under 16 from accessing major social media sites. Australian streaming service Kick will also be added to the banned list.
- Previous platforms included: Facebook, X, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram.
- YouTube was initially excluded for its educational content but was later included after concerns from other platforms.
- The ban aims to hold platforms responsible for preventing underage access rather than placing the burden on parents.
Penalties and Enforcement
Companies failing to take reasonable measures to block users under 16 may face fines up to AU$49.5 million (about $32 million USD).
“There's a time and place for social media in Australia, but there's not a place for predatory algorithms, harmful content and toxic popularity [meters] manipulating Australian children,” said Anika Wells.
“Online platforms can target children with chilling control. We are mandating they use that sophisticated technology to protect them.”
Summary
This law marks a significant step toward safeguarding children from harmful online content by holding social media platforms accountable for enforcing age restrictions.
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