Policing childhood online: Will age-gated social media actually protect the next generation?

As Australia implemented a social media age restriction law requiring platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to take “reasonable steps” to block Australians under 16 from creating or keeping accounts, the world waits and watches to see how it’ll play out. The ban aims to protect youth from harms like cyberbullying and mental health risks, though children can still view public content and use messaging apps, with platforms facing hefty fines for non-compliance.

Is age-gating social media the answer to protect the next generation?

Australia isn’t the only one. In May, a bill was signed in Texas that will require Apple and Alphabet’s Google to verify the age of users of their app stores, highlighting the debate over whether and how to regulate smartphone use by children and teenagers. The law requires parental consent to download apps or make in-app purchases for users aged below 18. US ...