Despite new federal restrictions on social media, many Australian teens are finding workarounds to continue accessing platforms. Experts note that online social connections remain central to young people's lives.

Canberra

Following a federal government crackdown on social media access, many Australian teens report being banned from platforms like Instagram and TikTok. However, some have found ways to circumvent these restrictions, such as using false birth dates or other methods.

Experts suggest that while the government's actions may limit access for some, tech-savvy youth are often able to bypass the bans. The persistence of online social connections highlights the adaptability of young people and the ongoing importance of digital communication in their lives.

Australian teens find ways around national social media ban

Surprisingly, the sun is still shining, skate parks are buzzing, and the world didn't end after the social stoppage. Yeah, I'm happy, I'm chilling. Getting out, getting active, you know? The Simpsons predicted it years ago. Back then, characters turned off the TV and went back to basics. The Doomscroll desire, no more. Well, at least for some. I just woke up and I was all banned. I think it's really stupid. I did try faking my age, but it didn't work. And on Instagram, I had, like, a parent, like, connected to it and it still got banned. But others are seemingly immune, managing to beat the ban. I don't want to release it. I don't want to release the hacks. But, uh, I think maybe if you don't put your real birth date, you don't get banned. I still have TikTok. How do you still have TikTok? I have no idea. You have to do, like, a facial scan or submit an ID. Just try and get around it? Oh, nah, I didn't bother. Some experts say the federal government's move is akin to cutting off the branches but leaving the roots, because with tech-savvy teens, if there's a will, there's a way. Social connection doesn't really just stop because rules change, it just shifts platforms. So this isn't necessarily about defiance, but rather a reflection of how digitally capable our young people are and how central online connection has become to their social lives. Anti-amnesia's done enough. Bring back Scotland. Brendan Smith, 10 News.

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