Australia: Social networks to be forbidden for the Under-16s soon
In yet another recent move against social media, Australia had passed legislation that bans social media platforms for those under 16 years of age. This proposed law that had crossed the Senate stage with 34 votes to 19 received the final seal from the House of Representatives, where the government has its majority, on Thursday, November 28.
Which social media platforms are affected?
These new rules will, therefore, hit digital giants like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram, among others. They are allowed 12 months to enforce this new measure. Yet, it is not crystal clear which platforms come under this ban since they are not explicitly named in the bill. It is left to the country’s communications commissioner, Michelle Rowland, the BBC cites, who decides that with the help of a so-called eSafety commissioner.
Exemptions to the rule
However, it is allowed that some exemptions will be permitted. Health and education platforms, gaming platforms or messaging apps, and those for which no account is needed will not be bound by this law. Thus, Fortnite, Roblox, and YouTube should escape any ban.
Penalties for non-compliance
The companies failing to comply with this legislation could face fines of up to $49.5 million AUD ($32.1 million). They will be required to introduce age verification technology – the details of which remain undefined. The government says it will consider a range of options over the coming months. But Michelle Rowland said platforms would not be allowed to compel users to hand over a personal document – such as a passport or driver’s license – to verify their age.
Researchers have suggested that the proposed age verification systems may not work in practice. Besides, critics have raised concerns about privacy.
Notably, though there are valid concerns about the risks of social media, the same sites can be a lifeline for young people if used responsibly. Social networking sites help vulnerable children to locate resources and peers for advice, foster genuine social relationships-especially among rural residents.
Also, minors below 16 years who continue accessing the forbidden platforms shall not be punished. Enterprising teens may find it quite easy to get around the restrictions using a VPN, which could render the law inoperative to a large extent. The online universe goes far beyond a small number of centralized social media platforms. There are other pockets of the internet to which teens can turn instead. For instance, there are still a considerable number of active forums for every kind of interest.
