Australia expects platforms to "stop under-16s from using VPNs" to evade social media ban
NeutralTechnology
- Australia is set to enforce a ban on social media access for individuals under 16, effective November 10, 2025. The Australian regulator has indicated that platforms must take measures to prevent underage users from using VPNs to bypass this restriction, although specific implementation details remain unclear.
- This development is significant as it reflects Australia's commitment to enhancing online safety for minors, a move that has prompted major platforms like YouTube and Meta to adapt their services to comply with the new regulations.
- The initiative has sparked a broader debate about the effectiveness of age restrictions and the challenges of enforcing them in the digital age, particularly as privacy experts raise concerns about the potential for compliance errors and the ability of platforms to accurately verify user ages.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System
