TikTok and YouTube have collectively taken down 4.7 million accounts belonging to users under 16 in Indonesia, as the government ramps up efforts to protect minors online. This decisive action follows a regulation announced in March that mandates social media platforms deemed high-risk to deactivate child accounts.
Government Initiative to Protect Minors
Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid confirmed that TikTok deactivated 4.1 million accounts, while YouTube accounted for 600,000. The government aims not only to limit access but also to instigate behavioral changes among social media companies.
We’re not just delaying a child’s access, but we want behaviors from platforms to change, too.
Meutya Hafid, Communications and Digital Minister
The Indonesian government's approach aligns with increasing global scrutiny over the impact of social media on youth. Similar measures were enacted in Australia last year, aiming to mitigate risks associated with cyberbullying and addiction.
The Indonesian initiative reflects a growing trend where nations are prioritizing the protection of minors in an increasingly digital world. As concerns mount over mental health issues linked to social media use among young people, other countries, including the UK, are also considering tougher restrictions on social media platforms.