Indonesia and Australia have escalated legal battles with Google and Meta over alleged violations of laws banning children under 16 from social media platforms. Indonesian authorities summoned executives from both companies, accusing them of failing to deactivate underage accounts and implement robust age-verification systems. In Australia, where similar restrictions took effect last year, regulators allege platforms like TikTok and Snapchat have circumvented safeguards, allowing repeated failed age-verification attempts. Meta and Google argue that bans could push teens to less regulated platforms, while Indonesian Minister Meutya Hafid emphasized the law’s permanence: "The path chosen by the state is to delay access until children are ready."

Tech giants face mounting pressure globally. Australia’s eSafety Commission reported nearly 5 million underage accounts removed in the first month of its law, with fines reaching up to $33 million for non-compliance. Meta and YouTube face U.S. lawsuits alleging addictive design features harmed a minor’s mental health. Indonesia has warned TikTok and Roblox for partial compliance, threatening market suspensions for repeat offenders. Only X and Bigo Live confirmed full adherence to Indonesia’s rules.

The clash highlights a global shift toward regulating digital spaces for youth. Malaysia and Spain are considering similar laws, while U.S. courts scrutinize tech firms’ impact on adolescent well-being. Regulators stress that platforms must prioritize safety over profit, with Australia’s minister declaring, "If these companies want to operate here, they must obey our laws."

This regulatory push underscores growing public demand for accountability in tech’s handling of young users. As litigation and penalties mount, Google and Meta face a pivotal choice: adapt to stricter oversight or risk losing access to lucrative markets.