Australia Passes Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

Australia has introduced a groundbreaking law that prohibits children under 16 from using social media platforms without parental consent. This legislation, aimed at curbing online risks such as cyberbullying and inappropriate content exposure, enforces stricter age verification protocols on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Violations by these platforms could result in heavy fines, underscoring the government’s commitment to child safety.

Pakistan, facing similar challenges with rising cybercrime rates, could benefit from adopting such policies. Cyberbullying and online exploitation have become significant concerns, particularly among the youth. Australia’s law also mandates social media companies to enhance privacy settings for underage users and implement robust content moderation measures to ensure a safer digital environment

Educational institutions and policymakers in Pakistan might draw lessons from Australia’s approach by encouraging digital literacy and parental involvement. Additionally, strengthening the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) could address online risks, safeguarding vulnerable communities while promoting responsible social media use.