In a new blog post by David Inserra, Australia’s under-16 social media ban is examined as the first law of its kind globally.

Set to take effect December 10th, the legislation requires age verification for major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Inserra states that “despite the bill’s promises to protect children from online harms, the ban and new age assurance requirements create new threats and vulnerabilities, not only for the young children it aims to protect, but also for all internet users in Australia.”

He also suggests the ban will push users toward alternatives, writing that “new platforms are always springing up. This just means that the Australian government will be continually playing whack-a-mole.”

Inserra pushes for alternative approaches: “policymakers should look to empower parents and educate children on how to best use online platforms.

To speak with Inserra, feel free to reach out to Esalamon@​cato.​org