Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 03:19am on 10 Dec 2025,Wednesday International
Australia has become the first country to enforce a nationwide social-media ban for anyone under 16 — in effect from 10 December 2025. Major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, Kick and Threads must deactivate under-16 accounts and block new registrations — or face fines up to A$49.5–50 million. The ban aims to shield children from online harms like cyberbullying, addictive algorithms and harmful content. However, early checks show some platforms (notably Reddit, YouTube, Twitch) still allow 14-year-olds to register as of the ban’s first day — highlighting enforcement challenges. Supporters say the law protects youth well-being; critics argue it might push teens into less safe, unregulated online spaces.(PC: Reuters)
