Reddit to comply with Australia’s ‘legally erroneous’ under-16 social media ban
NegativeWorld Affairs
- Reddit has announced its compliance with Australia's new law banning social media access for individuals under 16, which is set to take effect on December 10, 2025. The platform has expressed concerns, labeling the law as 'legally erroneous' and 'arbitrary' in its impact. The company plans to implement an age-prediction model to analyze users' ages, arguing that it serves primarily as a source of information rather than a social media platform.
- This development is significant for Reddit as it navigates regulatory challenges in Australia, a market where compliance with local laws is crucial for operational continuity. By adhering to the new legislation, Reddit aims to avoid potential penalties while also addressing concerns about the safety of minors online, which has become a focal point for governments worldwide.
- The implementation of this ban reflects a growing trend among governments to regulate social media access for minors, driven by concerns over online safety, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content. As various platforms, including Meta and Snapchat, prepare to enforce similar restrictions, the debate continues over the effectiveness and implications of such laws, with some teenagers already challenging the legality of the ban in court.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System
