Primary figures involved in Australia’s experiment to verify the age of social media users are left out as a result of confidential information being disclosed and high-profile departures | Social media

The organization behind the age assurance technology trial, which aims to keep under-16s off social media, has faced challenges amidst media leaks and the resignation of two advisory board members. The trial, initiated by the UK-based Age Check Certification Scheme (ACCS), tested various age verification technologies that social media platforms and adult websites could use to restrict access to under-16s and under-18s, respectively, as Australia prepares for its under-16s social media ban in December. Despite these hurdles, ACCS insists the final report, expected to be a 10-volume, 2,500-page document, will be thorough and validated. Critiques and concerns over data privacy and the efficacy of the technology have led to heightened scrutiny and skepticism from stakeholders and privacy advocates. With the final report yet to be publicly released, the trial’s outcomes and implications for regulating social media access remain a subject of contention and debate.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/aug/19/australia-age-assurance-trial-social-media-ban-leaks-resignations