A recent study indicates that Australia’s efforts to restrict teen social media access through age verification policies have had minimal impact on usage rates. Despite new regulations requiring platforms to gain parental consent for users under 16, researchers found little discernible change in the number of teenagers using social media. The research, conducted by the Australian National University, analyzed data from a survey of over 800 Australian teenagers. It revealed that while awareness of the new rules is high, compliance and enforcement remain significant challenges. Experts suggest that teenagers are circumventing the restrictions through various methods, including using VPNs or providing false birthdates. The findings raise questions about the effectiveness of similar policies being considered in other countries, highlighting the difficulty of regulating online behavior. The study underscores the need for alternative approaches to online safety, such as digital literacy education and open communication between parents and children.