A recent study indicates that despite a ban on social media for individuals under 16 in Australia, eight out of 10 young people are still actively using these platforms. Researchers have raised concerns about the effectiveness of age verification checks and noted a lack of immediate reduction in underage social media usage.
In the UK, Keir Starmer introduced a similar ban for under-16s, expected to be enforced by early spring 2027. However, the Prime Minister recognizes that such measures may not be a complete solution, citing how minors continue to find ways to circumvent existing restrictions, such as those on underage alcohol consumption.
The study conducted by Australia’s University of Newcastle revealed that a majority of underage participants, around 85%, admitted to accessing social media platforms covered by the ban in Australia, primarily through their own accounts. The research, published in The BMJ, emphasized that it may take up to a decade to fully assess the impact of the ban.
Surveying 408 children aged 12 to 17, the study found that two-thirds encountered age verification measures, with self-declared age and photo uploads being the most common methods. Approximately 20% admitted to using fake accounts to bypass restrictions, while 10% resorted to private browsing.
The research highlighted challenges in implementing the ban effectively, with many participants finding ways to evade the restrictions. The study suggested that the initial phase after the ban’s introduction lacked comprehensive compliance and witnessed significant circumvention of social media regulations among adolescents under 16.
While early effects of the ban were deemed inconclusive, researchers stressed the importance of investing in accountability and education mechanisms to ensure compliance and uptake. They viewed the findings as essential for shaping future government actions to enhance the health and well-being of young individuals.
Another study by the Molly Rose Foundation (MRF) indicated that a considerable number of Australian 12 to 15-year-olds still maintained access to restricted social media platforms. Despite the ban, a significant portion of previous users on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram retained their accounts.
Responding to the findings, Andy Burrows, MRF’s chief executive, expressed concerns over the ineffectiveness of the social media ban in Australia and cautioned against similar outcomes in the UK. The foundation, established in memory of Molly Russell, advocated for a comprehensive strategy to safeguard children online, emphasizing the need for proactive measures beyond symbolic bans.
In the UK, the proposed ban is expected to encompass popular platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, excluding messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal. The government plans to implement stronger age verification checks to enhance the ban’s efficacy in safeguarding minors online.
Emphasizing the ban’s role in shaping future social norms, a government spokesperson highlighted the broader objectives of the ban beyond immediate restrictions. The ban aims to set a precedent for future generations and promote responsible online behavior among young individuals.
