Social Media: Platforms forced to delete child accounts and block kids re-registering as part of upcoming ban

Social media platforms were told to delete existing children’s accounts and when the non -disregarding ban of Australia entered into force on December 10, children would have to prevent approximately $ 50 million re -registration or risk fine.

The Minister of Communication Anika Wells will publish new instructions on Tuesday to help big technology companies to understand how to comply.

The guide reveals basic expectations, including examination mechanisms and continuous monitoring, to disable accounts, prevent children under 16 years of age.

The government comes after publishing a 1200 -page report on age assurance technology on 1 September.

Although it is possible to verify age, it was found to be loaded with risks, errors and prejudice.

The report also found that technology was less accurate for girls and non -Caucasus faces, and age forecasts were typically closed for two to three years.

Mrs. Wells said instructions are designed to help platforms understand their responsibilities to meet the needs of the ban.

“This industrial guidance clearly reveals our strong expectations,” he said.

“Esafety’s guidance clearly demonstrates that platforms should comply with the law, and also provide users transparent and accessible information about age assurance systems.”

Under the prohibition, platforms cannot have a blanket approach to age verification, or force people to use government identities to prove their online age. They should only offer “reasonable alternatives ına to the government identity.

MS Wells and Teletya Commissioner Julie Inman-Grant recommend using minimal invasive techniques.

Platforms can be fined up to 49.5 million dollars if they do not take reasonable steps to comply with new obligations.