https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/28/australia/australia-passes-social-media-law-i...Under the new law, tech companies must take “reasonable steps” to prevent under-age users from accessing social media services or face fines of nearly 50 million Australian dollars ($32 million).
It’s the world’s toughest response yet to a problem that has seen other countries impose restrictions but not hold companies accountable for breaches of a nationwide ban.
The ban is expected to apply to
Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit and X,
but that list could expand.
Close up of elementary student typing text message on smart phone while sitting at the desk in the classroom.
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School bullies have moved online. But is banning all under-16s from social media really the answer?
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the new law on Friday, saying it sent a message to parents that “we’ve got your back.”
“Platforms now have a social responsibility to ensure the safety of our kids is a priority for them,” he said.
Albanese had previously told parliament there was no time to waste.
“We know that social media can be a weapon for bullies, a platform for peer pressure, a driver of anxiety, a vehicle for scammers. And worst of all, a tool for online predators,” he said.
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