Australia’s proposed ‘opt out’ law targets Big Tech algorithms
Summary
Australia is planning new laws that would require social media companies to let users turn off algorithms that recommend content. The government says this is to reduce online harm and give people more control over what they see on platforms like Meta.Key Facts
- Australia’s draft law would force social media companies to offer an option to disable powerful content algorithms.
- The law aims to create a “digital duty of care” to protect users from harmful online content.
- Communications Minister Anika Wells said many Australians like algorithms but should have the choice to turn them off.
- The opposition leader, Angus Taylor, has not seen the bill and worries it might lead to censorship.
- Social media algorithms are criticized for promoting addictive, sensational, or extreme content.
- In December, Australia banned social media use for children under 16 to protect them from online harm and predatory algorithms.
- Other countries like the UK and France have introduced similar rules to protect young users.
- Despite the under-16 ban, data shows Australian children are still increasingly using social media apps.
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