Pix: Canva

Young users remain deeply connected to their screens, as Australia steps up scrutiny on social media platforms over its under-16 ban.

Industry data shows many Australian teenagers are still accessing social media platforms months after the country introduced a ban for users under 16.

Britain’s regulators are stepping up pressure on major social media platforms to strengthen age checks and better protect children online.

Many parents worry about the impact of social media, but UK MPs have voted against introducing a ban for under-16s.

Instead of disappearing from feeds, teens are outsmarting the restrictions with surprisingly resourceful tricks. Photo: Canva

The challenge lies in protecting children online while ensuring that solutions remain fair, coordinated and realistic for the long term.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said platforms will be required to implement strict age verification systems, describing the current online ecosystem as a digital space where regulation has failed to keep children safe.