Snapchat Rolls Out Age Verification Ahead of Australia’s Teen Social Media Ban

Countdown to December 10: Teen Social Media Use Under Scrutiny

Australian teenagers who log into Snapchat this week may notice something new: a request to verify their age. The move comes just weeks before Canberra enforces one of the strictest social media laws in the world, banning users under 16 from platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and now Snapchat.

Starting December 10, users under 16 who fail to verify their age will see their accounts locked, potentially cutting them off from friends, family, and communities they’ve built online. Snapchat has rolled out several verification options, including linking an Australian bank account, providing government-issued ID, or taking a photo of their face for a third-party age estimate.

Snapchat Pushes Back on the Ban

While Snapchat confirmed it will comply with the law, the company expressed concerns that the restrictions could backfire. A spokesperson said:

“Disconnecting teens from their friends and family doesn’t make them safer – it may push them to less safe, less private messaging apps.”

The platform has also encouraged teens to download their data now, warning that accessing it may become difficult once the restrictions take effect.

A Global Trend With Local Challenges

Australia’s law is among the most stringent globally. Platforms that fail to remove users under 16 face hefty fines, putting intense pressure on social media companies to implement robust age-verification systems. So far, some apps such as Discord, WhatsApp, Lego Play, and Pinterest have avoided the ban, though authorities reserve the right to add new platforms.

The legislation reflects growing concerns worldwide about children’s safety online. New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced similar restrictions, and the Dutch government has advised parents to prohibit children under 15 from apps like TikTok and Snapchat.

Experts Question Practicality

Despite the boldness of the law, experts warn that enforcement could be difficult. Age verification online is notoriously challenging, and teens may find ways around the restrictions, potentially migrating to less secure platforms. Some observers argue the ban could be more symbolic than practical, highlighting the global struggle of regulating digital spaces for young users.

Social Media Users React

The news has sparked debate across Australian social media. Parents and teens have expressed mixed feelings—some welcoming the protection of younger users, while others worry about teens losing access to communities and support networks. On Twitter, one parent wrote:

“I understand the safety aspect, but what about the kids who rely on social media to stay connected with friends and family?”

Meanwhile, tech-savvy teens are already sharing tips on bypassing verification, showing just how complicated policing online spaces can be.

Australia’s December 10 social media ban is set to test the limits of technology, legislation, and public compliance. As Snapchat and other platforms roll out verification tools, the coming weeks will reveal whether these sweeping restrictions can truly protect teens or simply push them to less visible corners of the internet.

Source: IOL

Featured Image: X{@usaeuropeasia}