New Zealand plans social media ban for under-16s
New Zealand's government has announced plans to ban social media access for children under 16, requiring platforms to verify users' ages.
Key Takeaways
AIThe New Zealand government announced on Monday its intention to impose a ban on social media platforms for children under the age of 16.
According to Radio New Zealand, a draft law would require social media companies to take reasonable steps to ensure users are over 16 years old.
Education Minister Erica Stanford said the law would bring New Zealand in line with other countries holding technology companies more accountable for protecting children online.
She added that the law would place legal obligations on the platforms themselves, with no penalties for children, their parents, or guardians.
It remains unclear whether the bill will receive enough support to pass in parliament.
In December, Australia became the first country in the world to ban social media use for children under 16, blocking access to platforms including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.