YouTube to lock out under-16s in Australia as controversial social media ban looms

TechRadarThursday, December 4, 2025 at 4:13:09 PM
NegativeTechnology
YouTube to lock out under-16s in Australia as controversial social media ban looms
  • YouTube has announced its compliance with Australia's new age verification laws, which will restrict access to social media for individuals under 16, set to take effect on December 10, 2025. This decision follows similar actions by other platforms like Meta and X, amid growing concerns about online safety for minors.
  • This development is significant for YouTube as it navigates regulatory pressures while aiming to maintain its user base and reputation. Compliance with these laws may also influence how the platform develops its age verification processes and user engagement strategies moving forward.
  • The broader context reflects a growing trend among governments to impose stricter regulations on social media access for minors, driven by concerns over privacy, data security, and the potential risks associated with online interactions. Critics argue that while these measures aim to protect children, they may also raise issues regarding data handling and the effectiveness of such bans.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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