Social Media Bans For Teens Are Rising Worldwide, But Do They Really Work?

CNA Insider

CNA Correspondent April 23, 2026

Governments are racing to rein in children’s access to social media as alarm grows over its impact on young minds. Australia’s world-first under-16 ban – the toughest yet – is already showing cracks, with teens easily bypassing restrictions. India is exploring similar curbs in the world’s second-largest smartphone market, where a surge in young users – and low digital literacy – makes enforcement difficult.

In Europe, France is debating age checks and parental consent ahead of the September school year, while the UK is testing softer measures such as time limits. But beyond bans, restrictions and curfews, critics say real change will depend on education – and holding tech companies to account.

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