Overview
- Major services including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, X, Reddit and Twitch are on the initial list, with fines up to $32 million for failures to take “reasonable steps.”
- YouTube says it will automatically block under‑16 accounts based on Google account ages without deleting them, allow reactivation at 16, and warns logged‑out viewing will forfeit key safety features.
- Meta has begun removing accounts using self‑declared ages and offers appeals via video selfies or official ID, as regulators concede no verification method will be foolproof.
- Two 15‑year‑olds have petitioned Australia’s High Court claiming the law violates their communication rights, while the government says it will not be deterred by legal threats.
- Researchers are split on the evidence of harm but see a rare chance to measure impacts, as supporters cite cases of online harassment and critics warn bans may push teens to riskier, less‑moderated platforms.