Social media banned in Indonesia, platforms closed for children under 16 years of age

By Samira Vishwas On Mar 28, 2026

Why Indonesia Banned Social Media: Indonesia has started taking action to completely restrict social media and online gaming access for about 70 million children in the country from Saturday, March 28, 2026. This decision of the government will be applicable to those children whose age is below 16 years. Southeast Asian country Indonesia had announced this ban earlier this month, citing serious dangers such as online pornography, cyberbullying and internet addiction.

Strict warning to digital platforms

Information Minister Meutya Hafidh clarified in a press conference late on Friday that there is ‘no scope for compromise’ for tech companies.’ He informed that microblogging platforms X and Bigo Live have started following the new rules and have updated the minimum user age in their systems. At the same time, popular video app TikTok has also committed to take appropriate action against accounts of people below 16 years of age in consultation with the Ministry. The minister has warned all other digital platforms to immediately adapt their products and services to local laws.

Increasing pressure at global level

Indonesia’s move is inspired by a similar policy implemented by Australia in December. This shows that governments around the world are extremely concerned about the potential side effects of social media on children. Recently, the upper house of the British Parliament has also voted in favor of banning social media on children, which has increased the pressure on the government there to enact a similar law.

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heavy fines on companies

A big example of fixing accountability of social media companies was recently seen in America. A Los Angeles jury has slammed Meta and YouTube for their ‘addictive design’ Found guilty of causing mental and physical harm to a young woman. The jury has ordered both the giant companies to pay a total of $6 million (about Rs 50 crore) in damages. This strict law of Indonesia is being considered a part of this global link.