Fez — Indonesia will begin banning social media access for users under the age of 16 starting March 28 according to Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid.
The measure will require platforms to deactivate accounts belonging to users under 16 on several services, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.
Hafid announced the policy in a statement, citing concerns related to online pornography, cyberbullying, online fraud, and internet addiction.
“Accounts belonging to children under 16 on high-risk platforms will start to be deactivated,” Hafid said. “The government is stepping in so that parents no longer have to fight alone against the giants of the algorithm.”
The implementation will begin on March 28 and will be introduced in phases until all platforms comply with the requirements.
Age-based restrictions
The regulation establishes different levels of access depending on age.
Children under 13 will be limited to platforms designed specifically for their age group. Users aged 13 to 16 will only be permitted to access platforms classified as low risk and must obtain parental consent.
Sanctions related to the policy will apply to technology companies rather than users or their families.
Part of a broader global trend
Indonesia’s decision follows a similar measure adopted by Australia, which introduced legislation banning social media use for people under 16.
Australia’s law includes penalties of up to $32 million for companies that fail to comply.
Other countries have also begun discussing restrictions on minors’ use of digital platforms. France, Denmark, Greece, and Spain are advocating for similar measures at the European Union level, while India is considering comparable regulations.
Indonesia’s policy extends beyond social media platforms to include certain online gaming and e-commerce services.
The government said the restrictions will be implemented gradually as companies update their systems to meet the new requirements.
