Australia’s world-first teen social media ban is facing major challenges after a new study found that many online platforms are not properly checking users’ ages. The findings raise concerns about whether the law can effectively stop children under 16 from accessing popular social media services.
The law, introduced in December 2025, requires platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, and X to prevent users under the age of 16 from creating accounts. Companies must take “reasonable steps” to verify users’ ages using a combination of age-checking methods.
However, researchers from software testing company KJR, which previously helped trial Australia’s age verification system, found that none of the 50 test accounts created by researchers were asked to provide proof of age after declaring they were 16 years old. All of the accounts remained active across multiple platforms.
The study also revealed that some test accounts received advertisements aimed at teenagers, while one account created on X reportedly displayed adult content. Researchers believe this shows that current age-screening systems are failing to identify younger users before stronger verification checks begin.
Australia has already increased pressure on technology companies by doubling the maximum penalties for failing to follow the law and warning that legal action could be taken against platforms that do not comply.
Andrew Hammond, Director at KJR, said: “You should be asked to demonstrate how old you are, and not once have we been asked to verify our age or use age-assurance measures.”
A Meta spokesperson responded by saying the test accounts claimed to be above the minimum age and that stronger age verification is only triggered when user behavior suggests someone may be underage or when an account is reported.
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner also defended the system, stating: “We remain confident that age-restricted platforms have the technology and resources they need to prevent Australian children under 16 from having accounts.”
The regulator added that using multiple layers of age verification, when implemented correctly, helps ensure there is no single point of failure.
While Australia continues to strengthen enforcement of its teen social media ban, the latest study suggests that improvements to age verification systems will be necessary before the law can fully achieve its goal of protecting children online.
