The law sets a minimum age Criteria for users under 16 for platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram and X. How the restriction will be work online remains an open question for all of us.
Australia Has Banned Social Media for Everyone Under 16?, Is all Social Media apps Are Banned?.
Today the Australia Government has introduced a new Law, World-leading legislation to enforce a minimum age of Under 16 years for social media Apps.
LAW : The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 will launched for the protections for young children, kids and Students.
| QUERY | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| LAW | Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) |
| AGE | Under Age of 16 |
| Stronger Penalties | fines of up to $49.5 million for systemic breaches. |
Table of Contents
Penalties for Breaking the LAW
The Government will introduce stronger penalties for breaking the Law or Rules, which will face fines of up to $49.5 million APPROX for systemic breaches or not following the LAW.
It builds a great efforts by the Australian Government to hold platforms accountable for handling the safety of their users.
New definition of age-restricted Platforms
The Bill creates a new Visuals of ‘age-restricted social media platforms Under 16. This will include Apps like – Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, X (Twitter), others.
How to Use Social Media Safely for Teens Under 16
Social media is a Good way for connecting with friends, find new interests, and and share your knowledge with your friends and your followers . In any case, for adolescents under 16, it’s necessary for utilize social media safely and securely. With appropriate direction, you can appreciate social stages without undermining your security or prosperity. Here is a manual steps for you how to use social media while remaining safe and secure.
Also Check – Hiker body founded in mountains by 22 rescuer
1. Choose Age-Appropriate Platforms
Not all online entertainment stages are intended for more youthful users. Numerous stages like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have age limitations (commonly 13+). Notwithstanding, on the off chance that you’re under 16, decide on stages with worked in security highlights , like YouTube Kids or Messenger Kids.
2. Use Strong Privacy Settings
Most social media platforms allow you to customize your privacy settings. Here’s what to do:
- Make Your Profile Private: This guarantees just endorsed companions or supporters can see your posts.
- Switch Off Area Sharing: Try not to label your ongoing area in posts.
- Control Remarks: Use channels to obstruct destructive or undesirable remarks
3. Think Before You Share
What you post online stays online. Here are some sharing tips:
- Try not to post individual data like your location, school name, or telephone number.
- Be mindful of photographs — share nothing that uncovers excessively or may be humiliating later.
- Ask yourself, “Would I believe that my family or educator should see this?” prior to sharing
4. Beware of Strangers
The internet is full of people with different intentions. Follow these rules:
- Never accept friend requests or follow requests from people you don’t know in real life.
- Avoid chatting with strangers or sharing personal details with them.
- If someone makes you uncomfortable online, block and report them immediately.
5. Avoid Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is a common problem on social media. Here’s how to handle it:
- Don’t Engage: Do not reply to strangers.
- Take Screenshots: Save evidence of bullying to show your parents.
- Talk to Someone: Share your problems with your parent, teacher.
6. Limit Your Screen Time
Spending too much time on social media can affect your mental health and productivity. To maintain balance:
- Set daily time limit on how much time you spend on apps.
- Use social media as a reward after completing homework or helping your parents.
- plan regular breaks to stay refreshed and focused on playing out door games with your friends.
7. Verify Information Before Believing or Sharing
Social media is full of misinformation. Before you share anything:
- Check assuming the source is trustworthy.
- Try not to spread wrong information or unconfirmed news.
- Keep in mind, not all things are true on social media.
8. Parental Controls
If you’re unsure about your social media habits, ask your parents or guardians to help. They can:
- record your screen for improper substance or cooperations.
- Use applications to set limitations on use times.
- Guide you in grasping virtual entertainment’s dangers and advantages.
9. Report Suspicious Activity
Most platforms have features to report abuse, inappropriate content, or suspicious users. if you see or feel anything wrong in video then report it without wasting the time.