Canada moves to ban social media for U-16

OTTAWA:

The Canadian government has introduced a digital safety bill that would ban social media for children under-16 ?with exemptions for platforms that meet certain safety standards.

The bill also aims to make AI chatbots safer by setting up a digital regulator to establish safety standards, a government official said. Companies could face penalties of 3% of global revenue or up to C$10 million for failing to comply.

"This legislation will provide a safer environment for young Canadians and empower them to connect in-person, build friendships, focus in school, and learn real-world skills so they can thrive," Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture said.