Indonesia enforces social media ban for children

 Jakarta: (Web Desk) – Indonesia has begun enforcing a nationwide ban on social media use for children under 16, signaling a strict stance on protecting young users online. The regulation came into effect on Saturday, with authorities emphasizing zero tolerance for non-compliance.

The policy was introduced amid rising concerns over children’s exposure to harmful online content, including pornography, cyberbullying, and digital addiction. Communications Minister Meutya Hafid stated that there is “no room for compromise” when it comes to enforcing the new rules.

According to the minister, platforms such as X and Bigo Live have already complied by adjusting their minimum age requirements. Other platforms have been directed to quickly align their features and policies with the regulation.

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TikTok also confirmed its commitment to following the new law, stating it would take necessary measures regarding accounts held by users under 16, in coordination with authorities.

Indonesia’s move reflects a growing global trend. Australia implemented a similar restriction in December, while lawmakers in United Kingdom are considering comparable measures.

Meanwhile, in the United States, a Los Angeles jury recently held Meta and YouTube accountable for harmful platform design, ordering them to pay $6 million in damages in a case involving the impact of social media addiction.