Reddit, Kick among platforms facing social media ban
Reddit and live-streaming platform Kick are among eight new online social platforms that will fall under the upcoming social media ban on those under 16.
Founded in 2005, Reddit is one of the older social media sites that is still widely used.
Kick, on the other hand, launched in late 2022 and is one of several popular sites that blur the lines that define what social media is.
Both were on the list of social platforms that the online safety watchdog consulted to check whether they should comply with the ban.
Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, and
Ahead of Wednesday’s official announcement, Communications Minister Anika Wells said “there is a time and a place for social media in Australia, but there is no place for predatory algorithms, harmful content and toxic popularity meters that manipulate Australian children.”
“Online platforms can target children with creepy controls,” he said in a statement.
“We command them to use this advanced technology to protect them.
“Last month I spoke to the major social media platforms so they understood there was no excuse not to enforce this law.”
Ms. Wells left the door open to new additions, saying evaluations were “ongoing and this list is dynamic.”
Other platforms evaluated include WhatsApp, Twitch, Roblox, Discord, Lego Play and Pinterest.
“We are not after perfection, we are after meaningful difference,” Ms. Wells said.
Companies will face fines of $49 million if they do not comply with age restrictions.
The new rules will come into force on December 10.
Kick is growing rapidly and challenging more established live streaming rivals by offering creators a much higher share of revenue.
He also has a more relaxed approach to content restrictions, which has gotten him into trouble before.
The platform has faced scrutiny and criticism over its enforcement of community guidelines, with reports of hateful language, mislabeling of adult content and endorsements of gambling.
The French government is also suing Kick over the death of a user.
User Raphael Graven used his channel to post that he was subjected to physical violence and harassment.
He died after reportedly having difficulty breathing during the 12-day broadcast.
Intelligence agencies and law enforcement have warned in recent months that livestreaming and gaming platforms are breeding grounds for extremism and that predators are specifically targeting young men.
