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Australian social media users to be offered choice to opt out of algorithms
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- The Australian government has proposed new laws requiring social media platforms to offer users aged 16 and over the option to opt out of algorithm-driven feeds, giving them more control over their content.
- The legislation aims to protect children from harmful content, including material promoting eating disorders, hostility towards women, pornography, crime, dangerous stunts, and content causing serious mental health distress.
- Platforms must notify users about their feed options, allowing them to choose between algorithmically personalized content or feeds showing only content from friends and followed creators.
- The proposed Digital Duty of Care law includes penalties up to 109.2 million Australian dollars ($78.6 million) for non-compliance, holding tech companies accountable for inaction.
- The legislation also covers digital services like online games, apps, and AI chatbots, requiring them to eliminate design features that negatively impact children's behavior, such as addictive elements and those affecting self-esteem.
