Cyber Kids News — in plain English
I keep an eye on the online-safety world so you don't have to. Short, normal-parent language, only things I can back up. Newest first.
Australia's under-16 social media ban is now in force
Since 10 December 2025, platforms must take "reasonable steps" to keep under-16s off their apps. In early 2026 the government began investigating several big platforms over whether they're doing enough. It's a world-first law still settling in.
What this means for us
Don't assume the law does the job for you — most kids are already on these apps. Keep your own controls on, and if your child is under 16 it's a good moment for a chat.
Roblox brings in age checks for chat
After a wave of US lawsuits over child safety, Roblox introduced age-verified account tiers and age checks for chat in early 2026. A step forward, but still hugely popular with under-13s.
What this means for us
If your kids play Roblox, set it up with parental controls and age settings on, and keep chat locked down for younger ones.