Australia adds YouTube to its social media ban list to protect kids online

(CBS, KYMA/KECY) - Australia has put YouTube on the chopping block as it pushes a new policy to protect kids online. The ban expands the world's first crackdown on social media use for those under the age of 16.

YouTube is out as Australia tightens tech rules to keep kids safe while surfing the net.

"Young people under the age of 16 will not be able to have accounts on YouTube," said Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia.

The video streaming service will be added to the country's world-first federal ban on social media for kids under 16, reversing an earlier decision that exempted it.

"The evidence cannot be ignored that four out of ten Australian kids report that their most recent harm was on YouTube," said Anika Wells, Australian Communications Minister.

Youngsters will be able to access YouTube but cannot have an account, which they need to upload content or interact on the platform.

"We want Australian parents and families to know that we've got your back," Prime Minister Albanese expressed.

The decision broadens the ban set to take effect in December, which includes Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and X.

Platforms will face fines of up to $33 million for "failing to take responsible steps" to keep underage users off their sites.

"There is no cure but this is a treatment plan and this is too important for us not to have a good crack at it," Wells remarked.

YouTube argues it shouldn't be classed as social media, saying its main role is video hosting, but Australian leaders say safety comes first and any legal threats won't stop them.

The social media crackdown is being watched closely by global leaders, with Norway taking action of its own and the UK considering a similar move.