Canada proposes teen social media ban – with workaround for tech firms

4 hours ago

Canada proposes social media ban for under 16s, with a workaround allowing tech firms to avoid it if they show policies minimizing harm to minors.
The proposed Safe Social Media Act includes regulating AI chatbots, curbing harmful content, and establishing a new regulator, the Digital Safety Commission of Canada.
The law defines seven categories of harmful content, such as bullying and inciting violence, with violations facing fines up to $10M or 3% of global revenue.
Pressure for legislation follows previous failures and incidents like a school shooting linked to ChatGPT use, prompting calls for better online safety.
Unlike Australia's stricter ban, Canada's exemption clause aims to incentivize tech firms to improve safety policies, potentially benefiting all users.
Other countries like the UK and Greece are also considering or implementing social media bans for teens, while Australia's ban faces criticism for inefficacy.
Free speech groups express concerns about censorship, arguing online harms should be addressed under existing criminal laws rather than new regulations.

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