Teens hoping to get around Australia’s social media ban are rushing to smaller apps. Where are they going?

The Guardian TechnologyFriday, December 5, 2025 at 2:11:23 AM
NeutralTechnology
Teens hoping to get around Australia’s social media ban are rushing to smaller apps. Where are they going?
  • As Australia prepares to enforce a ban on social media access for individuals under 16, many teenagers are migrating to lesser-known platforms like Coverstar, Lemon8, Yope, and Rednote to circumvent the restrictions. This shift comes as Meta begins deleting accounts in compliance with the new regulations, which are set to take effect on December 10, 2025.
  • The move to smaller apps highlights the challenges faced by major social media companies like Meta and YouTube, which are under pressure to comply with the new laws while also trying to retain their younger user base. These companies are now tasked with ensuring that underage users do not access their platforms, which could lead to significant changes in their user engagement strategies.
  • This development reflects a growing trend towards stricter online safety measures for minors, as governments worldwide grapple with the implications of social media on youth. The Australian government's initiative aims to protect children from potential online risks, a concern echoed in various jurisdictions, leading to a broader conversation about the responsibilities of tech companies in safeguarding young users.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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