Organizers of the world’s largest trial of age assurance technology say that software-based methods to enforce Australia’s upcoming ban on under-16s using social media are feasible, despite some limitations. The government-commissioned Age Assurance Technology Trial involved over 1,000 Australian school students and hundreds of adults.
Starting this December, companies such as Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram), Snapchat, and TikTok must demonstrate they take reasonable steps to block users under 16 or face fines up to A$49.5 million (approximately $32 million). This makes Australia the first country to implement such a ban.
Concerns have been raised by child protection advocates, tech groups, and youths about the enforceability of the ban, citing methods like Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) that mask users’ locations.
Tony Allen, CEO of the UK-based Age Check Certification Scheme overseeing the trial, stated, “Age assurance can be done in Australia privately, efficiently and effectively.” The trial concluded there are “no significant tech barriers” to deploying such software, though no single solution works perfectly in all cases.
Allen also highlighted risks around data privacy, noting that some firms may over-collect data beyond what regulators or law enforcement would require in the future.
While detailed data and product names were not disclosed, a final report will be submitted to the government next month to guide upcoming industry consultations before the December enforcement deadline.
The office of Australia’s eSafety Commissioner commented that preliminary results indicate age assurance tech, if used properly alongside other methods, can be “private, robust and effective.”
Australia’s approach is being closely monitored internationally as other governments consider measures to protect children from social media exposure.