Australia's Under-16 Social Media Ban Begins, Teens Already Find Workarounds

• Australia is implementing a social media ban for under-16s, requiring platforms like TikTok and Instagram to remove existing accounts and block new ones.
• Social media platforms face fines up to Aus$49.5 million for non-compliance, with age verification technology expected for enforcement.
• The ban has mixed reactions; PM Albanese supports it for child safety, while tech companies and some experts oppose it, citing free expression and privacy concerns.
• Skepticism exists due to teens already finding workarounds like VPNs, lying about age, or using exempt platforms, potentially making the ban symbolic.
• Other countries like Malaysia are considering similar bans, while the UK, Denmark, France, and Germany have implemented varying age restrictions or parental consent requirements.

Why It Matters: Australia's social media ban for under-16s tests global efforts to protect youth online.