Indonesia Warns Meta and Google Over Child Safety Rules

JAKARTA, 31/3/2026 (REUTERS) - Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Minister, Meutya Hafid, announced that officials from Meta and Google were summoned this week for failing to comply with new regulations aimed at protecting children under 16 on social media. The rules, which took effect last week, require “high-risk” platforms to deactivate accounts belonging to minors.

The ministry warned that non-compliance could lead to sanctions or even outright blocking of platforms. Meta and Google had opposed the restrictions from the start, though both companies previously claimed to have introduced safeguards for younger users.

Other platforms flagged as high-risk include TikTok and Roblox, which have also been warned to comply or face similar action. The government says the curbs are designed to reduce risks such as cyberbullying, addiction, and exposure to strangers online.

Indonesia’s move follows similar steps abroad, including Australia’s ban last year over concerns about social media’s impact on youth mental health. With internet penetration at over 80% nationwide—and nearly 88% among Gen Z—the regulations could affect up to 70 million children under 16.

Source: Reuters