Indonesia Bans Social Media for Kids Under 16: Why More Countries Are Following This Bold Move

In a bold move that is sending ripples around the world, Indonesia has announced it will ban social media access for users under the age of 16 — and will begin deactivating accounts belonging to minors on several major platforms. The policy is part of a phased rollout aimed at protecting young people from internet fraud, addiction, and excessive screen time. Indonesia is not alone — across the globe, governments are increasingly taking action to protect children online.

What Indonesia Is Doing

The Indonesian government announced the new social media ban as part of a comprehensive digital protection policy for minors. Accounts belonging to users under 16 will be deactivated on major platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). The rollout will be phased, giving platforms time to verify user ages and comply with the regulations. The government cited concerns about internet fraud targeting young users, cyberbullying, addiction, and the mental health impact of excessive internet use among teenagers.

A Global Trend Gaining Momentum

Indonesia is the latest — and largest — country to take significant action on children's social media access. Australia passed landmark legislation in late 2024 requiring social media companies to ban children under 16. The UK has strengthened its Children's Online Safety rules. The US state of Florida banned under-14s from social media in 2024, and similar bills have been introduced in over 30 US states. The common thread is growing concern about the documented link between heavy social media use and anxiety, depression, and poor sleep in adolescents.

What the Research Says

Multiple studies — including landmark research from the US Surgeon General's office — have highlighted the mental health risks of social media for children. Teenagers who spend more than three hours daily on social media are twice as likely to report symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to those who use it less. The American Psychological Association and the Royal College of Paediatrics have both issued guidelines recommending limited social media use for under-16s.

The Pushback: Is a Ban Really the Answer?

Not everyone agrees that outright bans are the solution. Digital rights advocates argue that banning social media for minors can drive them to less monitored, more dangerous corners of the internet. They also raise questions about age verification technology — it's not clear how platforms can effectively verify users' ages without invasive data collection. Tech companies have largely opposed mandatory bans, instead proposing parental controls and content moderation as alternatives.

What Parents Can Do Right Now

Regardless of government policy, parents can take action today. Experts recommend having open conversations about social media use rather than just imposing restrictions, setting device-free times like meals and bedtime, following children on platforms and staying involved, and using parental control tools available on most devices. The Indonesian ban is a significant moment in the global conversation about children and technology — and it's a conversation that's only just beginning.