Snapchat's Age Verification Rollout Amid Australia’s Social Media Ban

Snapchat is implementing age verification in Australia in response to a new social media ban for those under 16. Users can verify their age through bank accounts or other identification methods, as the U.S-based app complies with stringent regulations targeting teens’ social media usage.

Snapchat announced on Monday that it plans to offer Australians a means to verify their age using software owned by the country's banks. This move aligns with a teenage social media ban taking effect next month. Users can prove they are 16 or older through bank-linked tool ConnectID or other identification methods.

Last year, Australia approved a pioneering social media ban for children under 16, marking one of the toughest stances against major tech companies. Snapchat, a U.S. based entity, has started notifying users this week about the age verification process. The method ties into the broader regulatory framework, marking a significant step for the platform.

Despite opposition from social media platforms and hefty fines hovering up to A$49.5 million ($31.95 million) for noncompliance, companies like Meta are also beginning to adhere to the regulations by deactivating underage accounts. The move by Snap follows the government's classification of the platform as social media rather than a messaging service.

(With inputs from agencies.)