Meta removes under-16 users ahead of Australia's social media ban
What's the story
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has started removing Australian children under the age of 16 from its platforms. The move comes ahead of an official ban on social media use by teens in Australia. Last month, Meta had announced that it would start notifying users aged between 13-15 years about the shutdown of their accounts from December 4.
Impact assessment
Around 500,000 accounts likely to be affected
The decision by Meta is expected to impact around 150,000 Facebook users and 350,000 Instagram accounts. The move comes as Australia prepares for a world-first social media ban starting December 10. Companies could face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million) if they don't take reasonable steps to prevent under-16s from creating accounts on their platforms.
Compliance strategy
Meta's response to the new law
A Meta spokesperson told the BBC that "compliance with the law will be an ongoing and multi-layered process." They added that while Meta is committed to following the law, a more effective, standardized, and privacy-preserving approach is needed. The company suggested that app stores should validate user ages when downloading apps and seek parental approval for those under 16. This would eliminate the need for teens to verify their age across different apps.
User options
Meta offers options for account deactivation
Last month, Meta had announced that users identified as under 16 would be able to download and save their posts, videos, and messages before their accounts are deactivated. Teens who think they have been wrongly categorized as under 16 can request a review by submitting a "video selfie" to verify their age. They can also provide a driver's license or government-issued ID for this purpose.
Ban impact
Other platforms affected by Australia's social media ban
Along with Meta's platforms, other social media sites affected by the ban include YouTube, X, TikTok, Snapchat, Reddit, Kick and Twitch. The Australian government claims that the ban is aimed at protecting children from the harms of social media. However, critics argue that it could isolate some groups who rely on these platforms for connection and push children to less-regulated corners of the internet.
Minister's statement
Government's stance on the social media ban
Communications Minister Anika Wells said she expected some initial hiccups in the first few days and weeks of the ban. But, it was all about protecting Generation Alpha—those under 15 years old—and future generations. Wells emphasized that with one law, they can protect Gen Alpha from being sucked into purgatory by predatory algorithms.