World’s first social media ban hits nearly 5 million teen accounts

Australia’s internet regulator announced Friday that social media companies have deactivated nearly five million accounts belonging to teenagers just one month after the country implemented a world-first ban on users under the age of 16.

The eSafety Commissioner reported that approximately 4.7 million accounts have been removed to comply with the law, which took effect on December 10. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the data as evidence of the legislation’s “swift and sweeping impact,” noting that the measure is now being watched and emulated by regulators in France, Malaysia, and several U.S. states.

The figure is significantly higher than initial estimates, equating to more than two accounts for every Australian between the ages of 10 and 16. Tech giants face potential fines of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million) for non-compliance, though children and parents are not held legally liable. While most platforms, including TikTok and Snapchat, have moved to comply, Reddit is currently suing the government to overturn the ban.

Despite the high number of removals, eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant cautioned that it is too early to declare full compliance, acknowledging that some underage users may still bypass the restrictions. The government plans to launch a multi-year study with mental health experts to track the long-term social impact of the ban.

Credit : CGTN