Australia social media ban: Companies deactivate nearly 5 million kids’ accounts in a month

Social media companies like YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Threads and Facebook have collectively deactivated approximately 4.7 million accounts since Australia’s landmark ban on social media for minors came into force on December 10, a report has said. Citing figures released by the country’s eSafety Commissioner, news agency Reuters reported that the first official data suggests how global tech giants are responding to the world-first legislation on kids social media ban. It also implies that these platforms are moving to avoid massive fines of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million) for non-compliance. Meanwhile, the data of deactivated accounts in a month is said to be higher than estimates, suggesting more than two accounts for every Australian aged 10 to 16, based on population data. Previously, 550,000 underage accounts from its Instagram, Facebook and Threads were removed.eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant reportedly described the initial rollout as “smooth,” noting that public education campaigns and third-party age-assurance providers have helped in meeting new requirements.“It is clear that eSafety's regulatory guidance and engagement with platforms is already delivering significant outcomes,” Inman Grant said. However, she noted that some underage accounts likely remain active through various workarounds.“We will continue to monitor migration trends,” the Commissioner stated. While most platforms have vowed to comply, Reddit has taken a different path, suing the Australian government in an attempt to overturn the ban. The government has stated it will vigorously defend the law in court.The Australian government said that social media platforms have failed to safeguard children, despite years of voluntary safety commitments. Lawmakers also linked heavy social media consumption to rising rates of anxiety, depression, sleep deprivation and body dysmorphia among teenagers. The government also targeted “addictive” algorithmic designs, arguing that recommendation engines prioritise profit-driven engagement over the wellbeing of developing minds.