Scam Alert: Social Media Minium Age Scams - ACCC Scam Watch

 

Scam alert: social media minimum age scams

Scamwatch warns about potential scams exploiting the new social media age restrictions What’s happening From 10 December 2025, some social media platforms will be restricted, by law, to people aged 16 and over. These laws require affected platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent anyone under 16 from creating or holding accounts. These measures are designed to protect young people from the risks and pressures associated with social media use. Information about the new restrictions is available at eSafety’s social media age restrictions hub. Scamwatch has identified 4 potential scams that opportunistic criminals may use to take advantage of these changes. Who’s at risk Young people and their families affected by the new social media age restrictions Social media users What the scams might look like Platform impersonation scams Scammers may pretend to be social media platforms or age verification providers, and ask you to verify your age or risk losing your account. Government impersonation scams Scammers may pretend to be from government or law enforcement, claiming you have breached the new laws and threaten fines unless you provide proof of age. Fake ID scams Scammers may offer fake IDs or access to age-verified accounts for a fee, targeting young people under 16 and their families. ‘Hi Mum’ scams Scammers might impersonate young people aged 16 or older, contacting their parents or guardians to claim they need help verifying their age to use a social media platform.

If someone contacts you about the social media age restrictions STOP. Don’t be rushed to share age verification details quickly. Don’t make any payments. No legitimate platforms are requesting payment associated with these laws. CHECK. Make sure the person or organisation you’re dealing with is real. Find out how your social media platforms are communicating with users about the restrictions and how they are verifying users’ ages. You can visit eSafety's frequently asked questions page for more information. PROTECT. If you’ve given any personal information, such as your age or proof of identity, or money to someone you suspect is a scammer act quickly. The What to do if you’ve been scammed page on scamwatch.gov.au has steps you can follow. To report scams and find more info go to Scamwatch.gov.au