Australia is preparing to roll out a teen social media ban in December, but a new government report highlights concerns about enforcement. The study, released Monday, found selfie-based age estimation software could be a key tool. However, accuracy drops for users close to the age limit of 16, raising doubts about the system’s reliability.
The report concluded that photo-based tools are generally accurate, fast, and respectful of privacy. Yet, results were inconsistent for teenagers, non-Caucasians, and female-presenting users. For Caucasians above the age cutoff, disruption is expected to be minimal, but others may face higher rejection rates.
The teen social media ban requires platforms like Instagram and YouTube to block users under 16. Companies failing to enforce the rule could face fines up to A$49.5 million ($32 million). While accuracy was strong for people over 19, those between 13 and 19 were in a “grey zone.” Sixteen-year-olds, for example, had an 8.5% chance of being misclassified as underage.
In such cases, the report recommends backup methods such as ID verification or parental consent. Without these safeguards, teenagers might lose access unfairly.
Experts warned the findings raise doubts about the ban’s effectiveness. “There are a lot of variations in accuracy,” said Justine Humphry, a University of Sydney media researcher. “That variation is concerning, given the tight timeline before December.”
Despite challenges, officials insist progress is being made. Communications minister Anika Wells said the trial showed that multiple solutions exist and that user privacy can be protected. She stressed that there is no “one-size-fits-all” method, but the government remains committed to making the teen social media ban work.
With only months left before enforcement, both policymakers and platforms face pressure to ensure the system is robust, fair, and effective.
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