How Did Meta Block 550,000 Accounts Under Australia's Social Media Ban?

In December 2023, Australia implemented a landmark social media ban that prohibits children under 16 from creating accounts on popular platforms like Instagram and Facebook. In the initial days of this policy, Meta reported blocking approximately 550,000 accounts, highlighting the significant impact of this regulation aimed at protecting young users from harmful online content. This article explores the implications of this ban, the reactions from social media companies, and the broader context of child safety online.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As of December 2023, Australia's social media ban for users under 16 is in full effect, with major platforms like Meta's Facebook and Instagram required to block access to Australians who fall below this age threshold. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance online safety for children, responding to increasing concerns over the impact of social media on young people's mental health and well-being. The immediate implications of this legislation are being closely monitored, not only in Australia but also by governments and organisations worldwide, as they consider similar measures.

Key takeaways

Approximately 550,000 accounts were blocked by Meta in the first week of the ban.
The law requires social media platforms to prevent users under 16 from creating accounts.
Meta argues for alternative measures, such as age verification at the app store level.
The ban has garnered significant support from parents and is viewed as a potential model for other countries.
Concerns have been raised about the ease with which children can circumvent the ban.

Timeline: how we got here

Below is a brief timeline of key events leading to the implementation of this social media ban in Australia:

September 2021: Discussions about the need for increased online safety measures for children begin in Australia.
June 2022: The Australian government announces plans to legislate stricter regulations on social media use by minors.
December 2023: The new law is enacted, prohibiting Australians under 16 from creating accounts on popular social media platforms.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent implementation of the ban has led Meta to proactively block a substantial number of accounts. Specifically, data shows that 330,639 accounts were blocked on Instagram, 173,497 on Facebook, and 39,916 on Threads during the first week of compliance. These figures underscore the immediate effect of the legislation.

What was already established

Prior to this ban, various governments, including the US state of Florida and the European Union, have been exploring ways to limit children's access to social media. However, Australia's approach stands out due to its strict enforcement and lack of parental approval exemptions, making it the most stringent policy of its kind globally.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK families, the Australian ban may serve as a model for future legislation. Parents are increasingly concerned about the influence of social media on their children's mental health, and this law could lead to similar discussions in the UK about safeguarding children online.

Businesses and jobs

The implications for businesses in the digital space could be significant. If similar regulations are introduced in the UK, companies may need to invest in compliance measures. This could include developing robust age verification systems or facing penalties for non-compliance, impacting their operations and profitability.

Policy and regulation

In the UK, policymakers are already considering the implications of Australia's strict ban. The Conservative Party has expressed interest in adopting similar measures if they win the next election, potentially reshaping the landscape of social media regulation in the UK.

Numbers that matter

550,000: Total accounts blocked by Meta in the first week of the ban.
330,639: Accounts blocked on Instagram.
173,497: Accounts blocked on Facebook.
39,916: Accounts blocked on Threads.
16: The new age limit for social media account creation in Australia.

Definitions and jargon buster

Age verification: A process to confirm a user’s age, ensuring compliance with age restrictions.
Parental approval: Consent from a parent or guardian allowing a child to access certain online platforms.
Social media ban: A prohibition on specific age groups from using social media platforms.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, UK parents and guardians may want to stay informed about the outcomes of Australia's ban. Observing how effectively the ban is enforced and its long-term implications on children's mental health and social interactions will be crucial.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the ban continues to unfold, UK policymakers may consider similar legislation. Stakeholders, including parents, educators, and mental health advocates, should engage in discussions about the potential benefits and challenges of such measures.

Signals to watch

Public opinion from parents regarding child safety online.
Responses from social media companies regarding compliance and age verification measures.
Legislative proposals in the UK related to online safety for children.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about changes in social media regulations.
Engage in discussions with children about online safety and the risks associated with social media.
Monitor your child’s online activities and the platforms they use.

Don’t

Ignore red flags in your child's social media usage.
Assume that children understand the risks of online interactions without guidance.
Overlook the importance of open communication about online safety.

Checklist

Have you discussed the implications of social media with your child?
Are you aware of the platforms your child is using?
Have you set guidelines for online behaviour?
Do you regularly review privacy settings on social media accounts?

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the Australian social media ban seeks to protect children, it raises concerns about the effectiveness of such measures. Experts warn that children may easily circumvent age verification systems, potentially leading them to less safe online environments. Additionally, the lack of exemptions for parental approval may isolate some children, particularly those from vulnerable communities, limiting their social connections and access to supportive networks.

Bottom line

The implementation of Australia's social media ban for children under 16 is a significant step towards enhancing online safety. However, it also highlights the ongoing challenges of enforcing such policies and the need for a balanced approach that considers children's social needs. As the UK contemplates similar measures, the experiences and outcomes from Australia will serve as a critical reference point for policymakers and stakeholders.

FAQs

What are the main objectives of Australia's social media ban for kids?

The primary objectives of Australia's social media ban are to protect children from harmful content and reduce their exposure to negative influences on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

How many accounts were blocked by Meta due to the ban?

Meta reported blocking approximately 550,000 accounts in the first week of compliance with the new law, reflecting the significant impact of the ban.

Are there any exemptions for parental approval in the Australian ban?

No, Australia's social media ban does not allow for exemptions based on parental approval, making it the strictest regulation of its kind in the world.