Google, Meta Urge Delay on Social Media Ban

Google, Meta Urge Delay on Social Media Ban

Google and Meta have called on the Australian government to delay its proposed ban on social media access for minors. The tech giants have expressed concerns that the ban could have unintended consequences for both users and businesses, urging for more time to consider potential impacts before any legislation is enforced.

The proposed ban, which is part of a broader plan to protect children from online harm, aims to restrict minors under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms without parental consent. The government’s goal is to address rising concerns over cyberbullying, online addiction, and exposure to harmful content on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

However, both Google and Meta argue that the plan is too abrupt and could hinder young users’ ability to access educational and social content online. They have also raised concerns about the practicality of verifying the age of users in an age where digital privacy is a key issue. Meta, in particular, has pointed to the potential for minors to seek ways to bypass age verification systems, making it difficult to enforce the ban effectively.

In their appeal, the companies have requested a delay to allow for more dialogue between stakeholders, including policymakers, parents, and industry experts. They propose exploring alternative approaches, such as enhanced privacy settings and more robust parental control features, to protect young users without an outright ban.

The Australian government has not yet commented on whether it will delay or modify its proposal. However, the tech companies’ intervention signals a growing debate around the balance between online safety and user freedom, as digital platforms face increasing scrutiny over their impact on younger audiences.
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