Post by : Badri Ariffin

In response to impending regulations, Snapchat has initiated age verification for its teenage users in Australia as the nation prepares to enforce a ban on social media access for those under 16, effective December 10.

The new process commenced on Monday, requiring users to verify their ages using Australian bank accounts, government IDs, or by uploading a selfie that an external partner will analyze for age estimation. Accounts belonging to users who do not verify their age or are identified as younger than 16 will be locked once the law takes effect.

These new laws impose strict requirements on platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. Any service permitting those under 16 to retain accounts post-deadline could incur significant penalties. Although Snapchat expressed disagreement with the ban, it confirmed compliance with local statutes.

The company also advised its younger users to download their data swiftly, cautioning that access might be restricted following enforcement.

In contrast, 10 platforms—such as WhatsApp, Discord, Pinterest, and LEGO Play—have been granted exemptions from the first phase of this legislation, though this list may be subject to change.

Australia's measures have garnered international attention as governments globally seek to reduce online risks for minors. New Zealand is currently preparing similar measures, while the Netherlands has recommended that parents restrict social media use for children under 15.

As one of the most stringent bans implemented globally, the next few weeks will challenge whether major platforms can effectively verify user ages en masse and determine if this crackdown will significantly alter how teenagers engage with the online realm.

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