Indonesia enforces under-16 social media ban with ‘no compromise’ warning

Indonesia’s move comes amid a broader international push to curb social media use among children. (Photo/Reuters)

Indonesia has introduced a rigorous nationwide ban on social media usage for individuals under the age of 16, marking a significant escalation in governmental oversight of digital platforms. The regulation, which took effect recently, is driven by growing societal anxieties regarding the impact of uncontrolled internet access on the mental health and safety of minors. Authorities have specifically highlighted risks such as exposure to pornography, the proliferation of cyberbullying, and the pervasive nature of internet addiction. The government has signaled a zero-tolerance policy toward technology companies that fail to implement these age-restrictive measures, demanding immediate and full compliance to preserve the digital welfare of the youth.

Indonesia has officially enacted a ban on social media for children under the age of 16 to address safety concerns.
Communications Minister Meutya Hafid has warned that there is no room for compromise and that companies must strictly adhere to the new laws.
Several platforms including X and Bigo Live have modified their age settings to comply with the mandate, with others facing pressure to follow suit.
This move is part of a larger global movement involving Australia, the UK, and the US to restrict child access to digital platforms.
US courts have increasingly found social media companies liable for harm caused by addictive software design patterns.

Indonesia began enforcing a nationwide ban on social media use for children under 16 on Saturday, with authorities warning tech companies there is “no room for compromise.”

The Southeast Asian nation introduced the measure earlier this month, citing growing concerns over online pornography, cyberbullying and internet addiction among minors.

Communications Minister Meutya Hafid said platforms must fully comply with the new rules or face consequences.

Platforms move to comply with new rules

Hafid said X and Bigo Live have already adjusted their minimum user age in line with the regulation, while other platforms were urged to act immediately.

“We reiterate that there is no room for compromise regarding compliance,” she said, adding that all companies operating in Indonesia must follow national laws.

TikTok said it is working with authorities and taking steps to address under-16 accounts as part of its compliance efforts.

Part of a growing global push

Indonesia’s move comes amid a broader international push to curb social media use among children.

Australia introduced similar restrictions in December, while lawmakers in the UK have also backed proposals to ban minors from social platforms.

In the United States, concerns have also reached the courts, with a Los Angeles jury recently finding major platforms liable for harm linked to the “addictive design” of their services.

The developments highlight increasing global scrutiny of tech companies as governments weigh stricter safeguards for young users.

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Source: TRT