What’s Happening with Meta and Australian Teens?
With upcoming ban, Meta begins to notify Australian teens that their accounts will be shut down. Starting December 10, teens under 16 in Australia will lose access to Facebook and Instagram accounts. Meta has already started sending notifications to affected users, ensuring they know what to expect and when they can return—once they turn 16, they can regain access to their accounts exactly as they left them.
Image Credits:Hollie Adams/Bloomberg / Getty Images
How Will Meta Identify Teens Under 16?
Determining which users are under 16 is tricky, as many may provide incorrect ages when signing up. Digital age verification is challenging because identity checks must balance accuracy with user privacy. Meta is reportedly exploring safer verification methods, though these systems can become targets for cyberattacks, highlighting the difficulty of enforcing age restrictions without risking personal data.
When Will the Ban Take Effect?
Meta’s ban will be fully enforced starting December 10, 2025. From December 4, teens under 16 will no longer be able to create new accounts. Existing accounts will be temporarily suspended until users reach the required age. Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss these changes with teens to minimize disruption and ensure a smooth transition.
What Should Teens Do Before Their Accounts Are Shut Down?
Before the ban, teens can back up important photos, messages, or content they want to keep. Meta has provided guidance on how to download personal data safely. Planning ahead will ensure no memories or connections are lost while waiting to regain access after turning 16.
إرسال تعليق