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Indonesia Set to Enforce Social Media Curbs for Under-16s

Indonesia is preparing to implement new restrictions on social media use for users under 16, but uncertainty remains over how the rules will be enforced.

The regulation targets platforms deemed “high-risk,” including Roblox, Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, Alphabet Inc.’s YouTube, TikTok and X. These services may be required to deactivate accounts belonging to underage users or restrict access based on risk criteria such as exposure to strangers, addictive algorithms and psychological harm.

Officials say the policy is designed to reduce cyberbullying and digital addiction among children. However, key implementation details—such as verification systems and enforcement mechanisms—remain unclear just as the rules are set to take effect.

Authorities indicated that account deactivations will begin gradually, with some platforms already outlining initial compliance steps. Roblox, for example, is expected to introduce stricter controls for younger users, while TikTok and X have signaled readiness to enforce minimum age requirements.

Despite these measures, experts question the effectiveness of the policy, noting that enforcement could be technically complex and that children may still find ways to bypass restrictions.

The move reflects a broader global trend of tightening social media regulations for minors, as governments respond to increasing concerns over mental health, online safety and platform design.

FCA Defends Palantir Contract Before Lawmakers

Britain’s Financial Conduct Authority defended its decision to award a contract to Palantir for artificial intelligence tools, after lawmakers raised concerns about the company’s growing presence across public institutions.

The contract covers a 12-week project to analyze the FCA’s internal data to help fight financial crime. During questioning in parliament, officials said Palantir would not gain access to sensitive regulatory intelligence in a way that would compromise oversight or control.

Lawmakers expressed concern about dependence on a U.S. technology provider, especially one that already holds contracts with other major British public bodies. They also raised questions about whether such firms could become too dominant in government systems.

FCA officials said the procurement process was conducted without knowing the winning bidder in advance and argued that tackling money laundering and financial crime requires stronger data analysis tools. They maintained that the regulator needs advanced technology to improve enforcement capabilities.

Palantir said it is restricted by contract from using or commercializing customer data and can only process information according to the client’s instructions.

Vietnam Moves Toward Crypto Licensing

Vietnamese companies are competing to obtain the country’s first licenses to operate domestic cryptocurrency exchanges as authorities prepare tighter oversight of digital asset trading.

The government plans to launch a pilot program that would allow locally regulated crypto platforms to operate, while restricting the use of overseas exchanges by Vietnamese traders.

Several financial institutions and investment firms have already entered the qualification process, reflecting strong industry interest in the emerging regulatory framework.

Vietnam has become one of the most active cryptocurrency markets globally, with transaction volumes reaching significant levels in recent years.

Officials aim to keep trading activity within the country’s financial system while improving supervision and managing capital flows.

The initiative could also help develop Vietnam’s digital finance sector, though policymakers note that further regulatory work is still required.