On top of the globe, Australia has become the first one to take a bold step to ban social media platforms in their region. This announcement becomes a major breakthrough as children under the age of 16 would not be able to access these sites by making an account. Recently, the announcement of adding YouTube into the list of ban platforms have also surfaced. Grab the details in this recent article.
Big Announcement by Australia
In a recent move, the Australian government has banned the use of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, X and Tiktok for children below the age of 16.
In the earlier announcement by the government, it didn’t include the name of YouTube. But in this recent update, it has even included YouTube in the list, finding its algorithm same as the other social media giants. These social media sites are responsible for shaping the perspective of children globally.
Why social media sites?
The decision is not primarily to protect the youth from the overdose of social media usage, rather it is a step towards safeguarding their lives. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took this bold decision after three Australian girls — Ollie, Liv, Tilly, lost their lives because of an incident which is linked to use of social media.
What does this ban include?
- Deactivation of social media accounts below 16 years of age.
- Disables the option for creating an account under the age limit.
- Strategic planning for all the loopholes.
- Imposition of heavy fines in case of violation are also under consideration.
However, the facility of watching the YouTube videos shall still be available for the children below the age of 16. The facility to create accounts and use the algorithm of YouTube to take effect shall be restricted. It will also restrict children from doing comments, likes and shares on posts.
Reflection on the Globe
This decision shall throw a massive reflection on the globe because the probability of its succeeding is pretty high. Norway has already announced a similar policy and the UK is also considering this policy as they think it will be a major breakthrough.
How will the platform verify the user’s age?
- The process is still not known to anyone. However, trials of age checking technology are underway but they are not successful as of now.
- Alternatives to ask for government IDs to verify the age shall also be used in the process. It will be a mandatory process in accessing the platforms.
- The primary focus should be on the age checking technology as it is critical to determine the age of the user. There might be some users using their parents account for accessing the platforms.
- However, social media platforms are asked to work out all the possibilities.
When does the social media ban start?
It is likely to take effect from December 10, 2025. The announcement has been made by the Prime Minister himself.
Are Video Games Included?
- As of now, video games are not included in this announcement. But there are very high chances that it might get included in further terms.
- The impact of video games is also high on the positive development of the youth, especially in a country like India, it is enormous.
Wake up Call for Today’s Youth
- Australia took a bold step in enhancing their youth but the real protection goes beyond digital restrictions. It is embedded in embracing the right spiritual wisdom.
- Today, Jagatguru Tatvdarshi Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj is guiding the youth towards a meaningful tomorrow through the divine wealth of His true spiritual knowledge.
- By following teachings and seeking refuge under Him, His countless followers are free from various social evils like intoxication, gambling, cheating, bribery, playing of games and many others social evils.
- By following His divine directions, youths have found the right direction, purpose and peace in their lives. Many have gained freedom from the evils like depression, addiction and mental pressure.
- The divine method of worship and the power in the mantras imparted by the Complete Saint (currently only Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj) are the backbone of His exponential success.
- For more information about Him, visit His website www.jagatgururampalji.org or watch His spiritual teachings at Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj YouTube channel.
