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Social Media Giants Face Age Ban Probe
30 Mar
Summary
- Major platforms investigated for potential non-compliance with under 16s ban.
- Some age verification systems are deemed 'unacceptable' by regulators.
- Companies could face fines up to $49.5 million for legal failures.
Major social media companies are facing intense scrutiny from the Albanese government regarding their compliance with a ban prohibiting users under the age of 16. Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube are specifically named in an ongoing investigation by the eSafety Commission.
The eSafety Commission's upcoming update is expected to reveal that some platforms have unacceptable systems for verifying users' ages. Reports suggest that certain platforms allow repeated attempts to pass age verification and have inadequate measures to prevent banned users from creating new accounts.
Concerns have also been raised about the effectiveness of systems for parents and others to report underage users. Communications Minister Anika Wells has voiced strong disapproval, suggesting some platforms are attempting to circumvent the new laws. The government is prepared to impose substantial penalties, with fines for systemic failures potentially reaching up to $49.5 million.
