(CLO) On Wednesday, the Australian House of Representatives passed a bill banning children under 16 from using social networks, before the Senate finalizes the first law of its kind in the world .
The bill would expose platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X and Instagram to fines of up to A$50 million ($33 million) if they fail to prevent children from creating accounts.
The bill passed 102 to 13. If it becomes law this week, platforms will have a year to figure out how to implement age restrictions before penalties are enforced.
Illustration photo: AP
Under the new law, platforms will also not be allowed to force users to provide state-issued identification documents including passports or driving licenses. Platforms will also not be able to request digital identification through government systems.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the Senate would debate the bill later on Wednesday. The support of the major parties all but guarantees that the bill will pass the Senate.
However, some opposition lawmakers have criticized the law. Criticisms include that it was rushed through parliament without adequate oversight and would take away parents' right to decide what is best for their children.
Critics also say the ban will isolate children, strip away the positive aspects of social media, push children onto the “dark web” and remove incentives for platforms to create safer online spaces.
Social platforms in Australia have asked for a vote on the law to be delayed until at least June next year, when a government- commissioned review of the technology will look into what age it should be banned and other issues.
But Melbourne resident Wayne Holdsworth, whose 17-year-old son Mac committed suicide last year after falling victim to an online blackmail scam, described the bill as "absolutely necessary for the safety of our children".
Huy Hoang (according to AP, Reuters)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/ha-vien-uc-thong-qua-du-luat-cam-tre-em-su-dung-mang-xa-hoi-post323081.html
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