Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 07:42pm on 09 Dec 2025,Tuesday International
Australia has blocked millions of children and teenagers under 16 from using major social media platforms as a new national law takes effect. Apps like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, X, and Reddit must now remove or block accounts belonging to users below the age limit. Parents and children will not face punishment, but companies could be fined up to A$49.5 million for failing to follow the rules. The government says the ban will protect young people from harmful content. Critics warn it may isolate vulnerable teens and push them toward unsafe, unregulated online spaces. (PC: BBC)