Social Media Use Among Australian Under-16s Rises Following Ban

Data from parental control software company Qustodio shows that social media use among Australian children under 16 is increasing despite a world leading ban implemented in December. While usage initially fell across the board when legal restrictions began, activity has since climbed and is approaching pre ban levels for some applications. Among 13 to 15 year olds, 25.9 percent continue to use TikTok, which is just over a percentage point lower than before the ban. Use among 10 to 12 year olds is only 0.06 percentage points below previous levels. Yasmin London, a Global Online Safety Expert for Qustodio, suggested that children may be using VPNs, obfuscating their ages, or simply accessing the apps because the restrictions are not working. The data also indicates that children are increasingly using WhatsApp, a messaging platform not affected by the ban. Australian officials stated the ban aims to protect children from predatory algorithms and online bullying. However, a peer reviewed study published in June by Australia based researchers found little evidence that teenagers have turned away from social media as a result. New Zealand has also announced potential legislation that could fine firms up to 10 percent of global revenue for non compliance.