Julie Inman Grant, Australia's eSafety Commissioner, has publicly criticized the federal government's social media ban for users under 16, describing it as a 'very blunt force approach' that lacks sufficient resources and effectiveness. The ban, which was implemented in December 2022, aims to restrict access to social media platforms for children under 16, placing the onus on companies like Meta, TikTok, and Google to enforce age restrictions. However, data reveals that about 70% of children who previously held accounts on platforms such as Snapchat, Instagram, and YouTube are still using them, raising concerns about the ban's efficacy. Inman Grant noted that many children were not even asked to verify their age. Despite the ban's intention to enhance online safety, the eSafety Commissioner has reported that compliance remains low, with significant numbers of underage accounts still active. The eSafety Commissioner is currently investigating these platforms for potential violations, although no fines have been issued since the ban took effect. The situation reflects ongoing challenges in balancing regulatory measures with the realities of social media usage among teenagers.