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Teens Easily Bypass Australia's Social Media Ban
27 Apr
Summary
- Over 60% of teens still access banned social media platforms.
- Most platforms took no action to enforce the ban.
- Australia considers fines for Meta, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube.

A survey indicates that Australia's ban on social media for individuals under 16 is largely ineffective, with a significant majority of teens reportedly still accessing banned platforms. The research, conducted by YouthInsight and the Molly Rose Foundation, surveyed 1,050 Australian teens aged 12-15.
Findings revealed that over 60% of pre-ban social media users claim continued access to platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Furthermore, two-thirds of respondents stated that the platforms themselves have taken no measures to restrict their access.
Australia's strategy involved tech companies self-enforcing the ban to avoid substantial fines, potentially up to $33 million USD. Despite reports of 5 million accounts being removed, the government expressed dissatisfaction with platform compliance and is contemplating actions against Meta, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube.