Australia Proposes Social Media Ban for Under-16s

The Australian government has proposed legislation to ban children under 16 from using social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, requiring platforms to prevent underage access and potentially impose fines for non-compliance. This initiative is part of a global effort to regulate tech companies to protect children online, with similar legislation being considered in Texas targeting under-18s. These actions underscore growing concerns about social media's impact on youth mental health, citing increases in anxiety, depression, and declines in social skills. Experts argue that excessive social media use may lead to behavioral addictions and loss of essential social abilities, supporting the need for such restrictions. However, responsible social media use through verified information, privacy protection, and moderated online time can help mitigate risks. The legislative debates emphasize the challenge of balancing youth online safety with access to digital communication tools.