Meta Platforms(US:META) Di Yi Cai Jing·2025-12-11 11:36Core Viewpoint - Australia has implemented the world's first social media usage ban for users under 16 years old, requiring platforms to take reasonable measures to prevent registration and remove existing accounts of underage users [1][3] Group 1: Regulatory Measures - The new law mandates that platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and others must prevent users under 16 from creating new accounts and must remove existing accounts, with fines up to AUD 49.5 million (approximately USD 32 million) for non-compliance [1] - Approximately 440,000 Snapchat accounts, 150,000 Facebook accounts, and 350,000 Photo Wall accounts held by users aged 13 to 15 are targeted for removal [3] - The government has not specified the age verification methods, allowing for various techniques such as facial recognition and user behavior analysis [3] Group 2: Implementation Challenges - Experts suggest that the implementation of the law may face significant challenges, including identity verification, privacy protection, and operational costs for platforms [1] - Some children have reportedly found ways to bypass the age restrictions, indicating potential flaws in the age verification system [4] - The Prime Minister acknowledged that the system may not operate perfectly from the start, comparing it to underage drinking laws [4] Group 3: International Implications - Australia's actions have garnered international attention, with countries like Denmark, Norway, and Malaysia considering similar measures [5] - The Malaysian government has announced plans to follow Australia's lead, while New Zealand is also monitoring the situation for potential policy development [5] - The European Parliament has proposed a non-binding resolution advocating for a minimum age of 16 for social media access, with parental consent required for younger users [5]