Australia’s government is investigating major social media platforms over concerns they are failing to comply with a new law banning children under 16. The investigation, led by the country’s online safety regulator, focuses on Meta, Google, Snap Inc., and TikTok.
Communications Minister Anika Wells stated the tech companies are “failing to obey the laws” months after the ban’s enactment. A recent survey found around 31% of parents report their children still have social media accounts despite the regulations, down from 49% before the laws were implemented.
The regulator identified “poor practices” including platforms allowing numerous attempts to bypass age verification. Companies could face fines up to $33.9 million for non-compliance. Australia is considering court action against the platforms.
France is also debating a similar ban on social media for those under 15.