Elon Musk Criticizes Australia's Proposed Social Media Ban for Minors

Australia's legislation to ban social media for users under 16 faces backlash over concerns about internet access control and privacy implications.

Australia's government introduced a bill to ban social media for children under 16, with platforms facing fines of up to AUD 50 million for non-compliance.
The proposed legislation includes mandatory age verification systems, potentially requiring biometrics or government IDs, raising privacy and implementation concerns.
Elon Musk called the bill a 'backdoor way to control access to the Internet,' continuing his ongoing disputes with Australia's government over tech regulations.
Critics, including Australia's Human Rights Commission, warn the ban could infringe on children's rights and disproportionately harm marginalized youth who rely on online communities for support.
The legislation, which excludes platforms like YouTube and online gaming services, is expected to face a vote in Parliament next week, with bipartisan support likely.