Australia To Enforce Social Media Age Limit Of 16 Next Week With Fines Up To $33 Million

AI-generated deepfake videos of real doctors are proliferating on social media platforms like TikTok, where their manipulated words are used to promote supplements with unproven health benefits. The fact-checking organization Full Fact has identified hundreds of such misleading videos, raising concerns about the spread of health misinformation.

A surge in the use of injectable peptides in Australia is being fueled by social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where influencers promote these substances despite their experimental status and associated health risks. A notable case involves a 21-year-old fitness influencer who endorses a peptide that is not yet approved for human use, highlighting the growing trend among young Australians seeking performance and aesthetic enhancements.

Steve Smith has resumed his Ashes rivalry with Jofra Archer, showcasing his batting prowess as Australia pulls ahead in the ongoing series. Despite Archer's attempts, he has yet to dismiss Smith in a Test match, highlighting the intense competition between the two players. The atmosphere surrounding their encounters has become legendary, particularly following Archer's impactful debut at Lord's in 2019.

England's pace attack struggled significantly during the second day of the first Test against Australia, failing to capitalize on their earlier success in Perth. Jofra Archer's initial bowling was promising, but the team allowed Australia to recover, ultimately leading to a disappointing performance.

TikTok announced its compliance with Australia's upcoming ban on social media access for users under 16, which will take effect on December 10, 2025. The company acknowledged that the measures might be upsetting for some young users but emphasized the necessity to adhere to Australian law. This decision follows similar actions by Meta, which has begun removing under-16 users from its platforms including Instagram and Facebook.

Russian authorities have blocked access to Snapchat and imposed restrictions on Apple's FaceTime, citing the apps' alleged use in organizing terrorist activities and committing crimes within the country. This action is part of a broader effort to tighten control over online communications as stated by the state communications regulator, Roskomnadzor.

Australia is set to implement a groundbreaking law banning social media access for individuals under the age of 16 starting December 10, 2025. This legislation aims to protect minors from online risks, including cyberbullying and harmful content. The BBC has spoken to teenage content creators about the potential impact of this ban on their lives and careers.

An officer relocated to Australia following a data breach that jeopardized her family's safety, stating that the incident placed a target on her family home. She has since taken a position with the Western Australia Police Force to ensure their protection.