TikTok, WhatsApp, Roblox May Be Banned for Children Under 16 – Full Details

ISLAMABAD (24 September 2025): The debate around online safety for children has taken a serious turn as Australia prepares to ban TikTok, WhatsApp, Roblox, and several other apps for users under 16. The move aims to protect young users from harmful content, online predators, and addictive digital environments that dominate today’s internet culture.

Why the Ban Is Being Considered

Teenagers worldwide spend hours on TikTok dances, WhatsApp chats, YouTube videos, and Roblox gaming, but safety concerns continue to rise. Experts warn of risks such as:

• Exposure to explicit content.

• Online predators targeting young users.

• Addiction to apps designed for endless scrolling and gaming.

To counter these risks, Australia’s eSafety Commission has written to over 16 major companies—including Reddit, Twitch, Pinterest, Steam, Lego Play, and Kick streaming service—asking them to assess whether they fall under the new under-16 ban.

Key Highlights of the Proposed Law

• Platforms like TikTok, WhatsApp, Roblox, and Snapchat could face restrictions for under-16 users.

• Tech companies must self-assess their eligibility for exemption.

• Violators could face fines of up to AU$49.5 million (US$32.6 million).

• Focus will be on platforms with the largest youth audiences and highest risks.

• New measures will target “lawful but harmful” content, including online pornography and AI chatbots capable of sexually explicit conversations.

Industry Response and Challenges

Tech giants have criticized the proposal, calling it vague, rushed, and difficult to enforce. One major challenge is age verification—deciding how platforms will confirm whether users are truly over 16.

Australia’s government says verification can be done privately and effectively, but acknowledges that no single solution fits all platforms. For now, much of the responsibility may fall on the companies themselves.

Roblox and Other Platforms Take Action

In response to rising concerns, Roblox has agreed to introduce new measures in Australia to reduce risks of adult grooming. Other platforms are expected to follow suit, either through stricter parental controls or built-in safety features.

Why This Matters Globally

Australia has long been seen as a global leader in online safety, and these measures could inspire similar moves in other countries. By targeting big tech companies and holding them accountable, the government is sending a clear message: protecting children online is no longer optional.

Final Words

The possible ban on TikTok, WhatsApp, and Roblox for children under 16 marks a turning point in how governments worldwide handle youth online safety. While challenges remain—especially in verifying user ages—Australia’s bold move highlights the urgent need to create safer digital spaces for the next generation.

Parents, educators, and policymakers will now be closely watching to see whether these restrictions truly protect children or simply push them toward new, unregulated platforms.