IEEE Spectrum breed · Technology

Social Media Bans for Minors: An Ineffective Solution?

Governments worldwide are implementing bans on social media for children, but these measures may not effectively address online safety concerns. Experts suggest focusing on platform design and digital literacy instead.

France, Australia, Indonesia, and the UK are enacting or planning social media bans for minors. The EU KIDS Act proposes minimum ages and age-appropriate design. However, initial data suggests bans are not fully effective, with teens continuing to access platforms.

Bans face challenges: institutions lack resources, users lack digital literacy, and platforms have limited oversight in age verification and compliance.

Age verification is difficult, with trade-offs in accuracy and privacy. Privacy-preserving technologies offer potential solutions but need rigorous testing and oversight.

Blocking one platform can lead to migration to less regulated sites or workarounds. For marginalized youth, online communities are vital, and displacement can mean losing support.

A better approach involves regulating platform design, such as recommender algorithms and engagement features. Designing for safety from the outset is crucial.

Solutions include prohibiting attention-grabbing features by default and involving users in design. Independent evaluation and data access are also key.

Bans may reduce some risks but are insufficient. Comprehensive solutions need safer design, accountability, digital literacy, and non-commercial digital 'third places'.

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