TikTok and YouTube have disabled a combined 4.7 million accounts belonging to children under 16 in Indonesia as the country’s new social media regulations take effect.
The move follows government rules requiring major online platforms to restrict access for underage users in an effort to create a safer digital environment.
According to Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Minister, Meutya Hafid, TikTok removed around 4.1 million accounts, while YouTube disabled approximately 600,000 accounts. The government said it expects other platforms to take similar action as it reviews compliance with the new regulations.
Introduced in March, the rules require social media services considered high-risk to deactivate accounts owned by users under 16. The regulation currently applies to platforms including TikTok, Instagram, X, Roblox, and YouTube. Authorities are reviewing self-assessment reports submitted by these companies to ensure they are meeting the new requirements.
The Indonesian government says the restrictions are designed to reduce the risks of cyberbullying, social media addiction, and other online harms affecting children. Officials also hope the regulations will encourage technology companies to take greater responsibility for protecting younger users rather than simply limiting access.
Indonesia’s approach follows similar efforts in other countries. Australia introduced a landmark social media ban for children last year over concerns about the impact of online platforms on young people’s mental health. More recently, the United Kingdom announced plans to expand restrictions to include gaming and live-streaming services, reflecting a growing global push for stronger online safety protections for minors.
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TikTok and YouTube Remove 4.7 Million Underage Accounts in Indonesia
