Indonesia bans under 16s from social media from March 28

Indonesia's new rule means under 16s might lose social media access, affecting millions of young users.
By Newsroom | Technology, Indonesia |

Digital Frontier Restricted

Starting March 28, Indonesia plans to bar individuals under 16 from operating social media accounts on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. This move, detailed in a new ministerial regulation, mandates that platforms deactivate accounts belonging to minors identified as "high risk." The regulation, distributed on Monday, signifies a significant intervention into the digital lives of young Indonesians.

"Indonesia will require platforms to deactivate 'high risk' social media accounts for under 16s…"

This policy intends to address widespread concerns regarding the safety and mental well-being of underage users. Company officials from TikTok and YouTube have confirmed they are engaged in discussions with the Indonesian government regarding the implementation of these restrictions.

Global Echoes and Platform Responses

The Indonesian initiative mirrors similar, albeit varied, actions taken by governments globally. Spain recently moved to ban those under 16 from certain messaging apps, while France's President Emmanuel Macron has publicly linked social media use to youth violence, advocating for restrictions on minors under 15. The United Kingdom is also reportedly considering an under-16 ban. In December, Australia enacted a ban preventing users under 16 from accessing a wide array of social media platforms.

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YouTube stated it is "reviewing the new regulation to ensure it empowers parents and preserves access to learning for millions of Indonesians."

Meta has indicated that default safeguards are in place for its 'Teen Accounts' on Instagram and Facebook. The Indonesian government has not specified the exact criteria for "high risk" accounts, nor the timeline for complete platform compliance beyond the initial March 28 deadline.

Background: Shifting Digital Landscape

The increasing scrutiny of social media's impact on young people has become a recurring theme in public discourse and policy-making worldwide. Concerns range from exposure to inappropriate content and cyberbullying to the potential negative effects on mental health and development. Tech companies, while engaging with regulators, are also grappling with how to balance user access with child protection measures, often emphasizing the utility of their platforms for education and connection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Indonesia banning social media for under 16s starting March 28?
Indonesia is banning social media for users under 16 from March 28 to protect young people's safety and mental health. Platforms must deactivate 'high risk' accounts for this age group.
Q: What does Indonesia's new social media rule mean for TikTok and YouTube users under 16?
Starting March 28, TikTok and YouTube users in Indonesia under 16 may have their accounts deactivated if they are considered 'high risk'. Platforms are discussing how to implement this.
Q: What are the 'high risk' accounts mentioned in Indonesia's social media ban?
The Indonesian government has not yet specified what exactly counts as a 'high risk' account for social media users under 16. This detail is expected as platforms prepare for the March 28 deadline.
Q: Are other countries also restricting social media access for young people?
Yes, other countries are also looking at social media restrictions for minors. Spain has banned under 16s from some apps, France is considering limits, and the UK and Australia have also introduced or considered bans.
Q: What is YouTube's response to Indonesia's ban on social media for under 16s?
YouTube is reviewing Indonesia's new rule to make sure it helps parents and keeps learning access for young Indonesians. They are talking with the government about the changes.