Australia’s Bold Move: Expanding Social Media Ban for Under-16s-WhatsApp, Twitch, and Pinterest Could Be Restricted! What You Need to Know!
Australia’s online safety authority is considering an expansion of its groundbreaking social media ban for under-16s, potentially adding 16 more companies to its blacklist, according to a report from AFP. Among the tech giants under scrutiny are WhatsApp, Reddit, Twitch, Kick, Roblox, Steam, Pinterest, and Lego Play. For now, these companies have been asked to conduct a “self-assessment” to determine if they fall within the ban’s parameters. Currently, popular platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat, and Facebook are already included in this unprecedented ban, the first of its kind globally.
Julie Inman Grant, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, has reached out to at least 16 additional companies, requesting they assess whether they should be exempt from the ban. Inman Grant noted in an interview with ABC that while some situations are “pretty clear,” the authority is committed to due diligence and will carefully consider all arguments presented. The initial focus of the regulator is on platforms boasting the largest user bases, as these present heightened risks of harm to young users.
Roblox has made its stance clear, asserting that it is not a social media company and therefore does not fall under the proposed ban. A spokesperson for Roblox stated, “We prohibit users from uploading real-world photos or videos, or re-sharing news, and we do not offer social media feeds within experiences in Australia.” They emphasized that they have conveyed their position to eSafety, asserting their exemption from the ban as an online gaming platform.
Despite Australia’s leadership in global efforts to combat internet harm, concerns have been raised regarding the enforcement of the ban. Experts argue the current legislation lacks clarity on how the ban will be implemented, leading to fears it may be merely symbolic and unenforceable. The eSafety Commission has the authority to impose fines of up to AUD 49.5 million (approximately USD 32.6 million) on non-compliant social media companies. Many of these companies have characterized the laws as “vague,” “problematic,” and “rushed.”
Communications Minister Anika Wells has acknowledged the government’s struggle to devise precise methods for platforms to verify user ages. Recently, an independent study commissioned by the Australian government concluded that age verification could be conducted “privately, efficiently, and effectively,” while recognizing that no single solution would suit all circumstances.
In addition to these developments, the eSafety Commission is rolling out new regulations aimed at shielding children from “lawful but awful” content, including online pornography and AI chatbots capable of engaging in sexually explicit conversations. Roblox, in particular, recently committed to enhancing protections against risks associated with adult grooming on its platform in Australia.
As Australia continues to take strides toward securing online environments for children, the implications of expanding this social media ban could shape the digital landscape significantly, forcing companies to rethink their engagement with younger audiences. The conversation around online safety remains urgent and dynamic, as regulatory measures evolve in response to the ever-changing digital world.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/world/australia-expand-social-media-ban-under-16s-could-restrict-apps-self-assess-whatsapp-twitch-roblox-pinterest-kick-steam-11758682859483.html
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Publish Date: 2025-09-24 09:40:00
