Australia Pushes Snapchat to Verify Young Users

Snapchat has begun asking young users in Australia to verify their ages as the country prepares to impose a world-first social media ban for children under 16.

The company confirmed that the new checks include technology linked to major Australian banks, alongside tools developed by the age-assurance firm k-ID.

The restrictions are due to take effect on 10 December and carry penalties of up to A$49.5m ($31.9m) for platforms that fail to comply.

The rules apply to major services such as YouTube, X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Reddit, Twitch and Kick, although several apps including WhatsApp, Discord, Lego Play and Pinterest have been granted exemptions.

Snapchat said users can confirm their age through the ConnectID system, which verifies details through bank accounts without sharing sensitive information.

Alternatively, users may upload identification documents or photos using k-ID technology, which then estimates an age range.

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ConnectID managing director Andrew Black said the aim was to improve safety “without creating new privacy risks”.

Snapchat estimates 440,000 users aged 13 to 15 and argues the ban may push some teens toward riskier online platforms.

The company said its app is primarily a “visual messaging” tool and warned that cutting off young users from family and friends would not make them safer.

Journalist Leo Puglisi, who founded the youth-focused outlet 6 News Australia, told a Senate inquiry that the rules could limit young people’s access to reliable information.

UNICEF Australia said the plan of goverment does not address the underlying issues children face online and called for policies shaped by the experiences of young users.

Child-protection groups have urged families to prepare for the changes, while Katrina Lines advised discussing offline ways for children to stay connected.

UNICEF surveyed more than 300 children aged 10 to 16 and found that 41 percent preferred face-to-face contact, while only 15 percent favoured online interaction.