Snapchat Closes Over 415,000 Accounts for Under-16 Users in Australia

Following Australia’s new law restricting social media use for users under 16, Snapchat has closed 415,000 accounts, the company announced on Monday. The law, which came into effect on December 10, 2025, requires platforms like Snapchat, Meta, TikTok, and YouTube to block underage accounts. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to AUD 49.5 million.

Snapchat warned that some teens may still bypass the age verification system, as the current system estimates age with a margin of two to three years. This means that some under-16 users could evade the restrictions, while some over-16 users might lose access unnecessarily.

The company has urged Australian authorities to make age verification mandatory in app stores, calling it an “additional security measure” to protect minors. Snapchat emphasized that a full ban is not an ideal solution, as its platform primarily helps young users stay connected with friends and family, and cutting access abruptly could impact their social well-being.

The closure comes after Australia’s online safety regulator reported that technology companies had already blocked 470,000 accounts last month. Snapchat stated it is continuing to close more accounts daily to comply with the new regulations.

In collaboration with Meta, Snapchat has recommended stronger age checks for the app, aiming to make social media safer while maintaining access for legitimate teen users.