Australia has announced plans for what could be the world’s most stringent social media age verification laws, aiming to restrict access for users under 16. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese introduced legislation that would require platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube to verify user ages and prevent access by minors.
The initiative expands digital identity verification on social media, building on current age estimation and document-based verification technology trials led by the Department of Communications.
Under this law, platforms must demonstrate that they are blocking underage users or face penalties. The eSafety Commissioner will oversee compliance, offering guidance based on age verification methods under trial, including document verification, biometric age estimation, third-party services, and behavioral analysis. Social media companies will have 12 months post-legislation to implement these age checks.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized the extensive consultations behind the proposal, involving experts, parents, and advocacy groups. However, concerns about feasibility and privacy persist.
An open letter from over 140 Australian and international experts warned that enforcing age restrictions on existing accounts presents technical challenges and may hinder access to vital information, especially for vulnerable youth.
The legislation mirrors similar global initiatives, such as the UK’s age verification for adult content sites and proposals in various U.S. states. Challenges include potential circumvention through VPNs and the risk of excluding younger users from online support networks. The law’s success will depend on social media companies’ ability to create accurate, privacy-respecting verification systems.
Source: ID Tech
November 12, 2024 – by the Mobile ID World Editorial Team
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