SYDNEY: Technology giant Meta has begun alerting thousands of young Australians to download their digital histories and prepare to delete their accounts ahead of a historic social media ban. The new law, taking effect on December 10, will prohibit children under 16 from using several major platforms, including Meta’s Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
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Meta is sending notifications via SMS and email to teens, warning that access to their accounts will be restricted starting December 4. The company said the alerts give users time to save contacts and memories, and young users can update their information to regain access once they turn 16.
The Australian government mandated that seven platforms—including Snapchat, TikTok, X, and YouTube—implement reasonable controls to prevent under-16s from creating accounts. Companies face fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars if they fail to comply. Meta estimates approximately 500,000 Australians aged 13 to 15 are currently on its platforms.
Account holders 16 and older who are mistakenly flagged can verify their age using Yoti Age Verification, which relies on government-issued ID or a “video selfie.” Experts have warned that facial recognition technology can have failure rates of at least 5%. Meta’s global head of safety, Antigone Davis, suggested that verification should be handled at the app store level for greater accuracy and privacy.
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The legislation has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters argue it protects children by encouraging real-world engagement, while others, like Save the Children Australia, advocate for regulated safety features instead of blanket bans.