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Is banning social media the best way to protect children online?
25 August 2026

Is banning social media the best way to protect children online?

The Front Page

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The Government's pushing ahead with banning social media for under-16s. 

It mirrors rules that took effect in Australia last year - requiring the likes of Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to bring in stronger age verification. 

If they don't, the social media giants could face fines of up to 10% of their global revenue. 

But coalition partners Act and NZ First both agree to disagree with it - and Christopher Luxon has admitted the bill won't get a look-in before the election.  

So, what's the point? Will these measures even work? And what are the risks of getting it wrong? 

Today on The Front Page, Tech Users Association of New Zealand CEO Craig Young is with us to break down the bill, how age checks would actually work, and what we can learn from overseas experience.

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You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network.

Host: Chelsea Daniels
Editor/Producer: Richard Martin
Producer: Jane Yee

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