Indonesia enforces social media ban for teenagers

Indonesia has begun enforcing a nationwide ban on social media use for children under the age of 16, with authorities warning that there will be no exceptions.

The new regulation, which took effect on Saturday, is aimed at protecting minors from online risks such as pornography, cyberbullying and internet addiction.

Communications Minister, Meutya Hafid, said digital platforms must comply fully with the directive or face consequences.

“There is no room for compromise,” she said, stressing that all companies operating in Indonesia are required to align with the country’s laws.

According to the minister, platforms including X and Bigo Live have already adjusted their minimum age requirements in line with the regulation.

She urged other platforms to immediately update their services to meet the new standards.

Meanwhile, TikTok said it is working closely with the government to implement the policy, including taking steps to manage accounts belonging to users under 16.

Indonesia’s move comes amid growing global concern over the impact of social media on children.

Countries such as Australia have introduced similar restrictions, while lawmakers in United Kingdom are also pushing for tighter controls.

In the United States, a jury recently found Meta and YouTube liable for harm caused to a young user, citing the addictive nature of their platforms.