Why Meta is deactivating Instagram, Facebook accounts of Australian teens
What's the story
Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, has announced plans to comply with Australia's new social media ban by deactivating accounts of users aged between 13 and 15. The move comes as part of a wider effort to comply with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's "world-leading" ban that seeks to protect children from potential risks associated with social media use.
Account closure
Notification and deactivation process for underage users
Meta has started notifying users it believes are aged between 13 and 15 through text messages, emails, and in-app notifications. The company said that the accounts of these users will start being deactivated from December 4. This is ahead of Australia's social media ban coming into effect on December 10. The restriction also applies to other platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and Reddit.
Compliance strategy
Meta's compliance and future plans
Meta has said that from December 4, users under 16 won't be able to create accounts on its platforms. The company is asking young users to update their contact details so they can be informed when they're eligible to open an account. They can also download and save their posts, videos, and messages before their accounts are deactivated.
Verification process
Age verification methods for account access
Meta has also introduced age verification methods for teens who claim they are old enough to use Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. These include taking a "video selfie" for facial age scans or providing a driver's license or other government-issued ID. These methods were tested by the UK-based Age Check Certification Scheme (ACCS) earlier this year, in a report commissioned by the Australian state.
Non-compliance penalties
Penalties for non-compliance with the ban
Social media platforms that fail to take "reasonable steps" to block under-16s could be fined up to A$50 million ($25 million). Antigone Davis, Meta's Vice President and Global Head of Safety, said compliance with the law will be an ongoing process. She also revealed that Meta supports a law requiring parental approval for under-16s before downloading a social media app.