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Since 10 December, some social media apps, including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, Threads, X (formerly Twitter), and Kick were required to change their rules for people under 16.
Here are some ways to stay safe, protect your privacy, and stay close with your friends now that the changes have come into effect.
1. Stay safely connected
If your account has changed or disappeared, it might feel tricky to stay in touch with friends. Here’s how to keep connections strong:
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Share contact info carefully.
Only give your number or email to people you know and trust. Never post personal info like your school or home address online. If you are unsure how to do this, talk to a trusted adult.
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Use safer ways to chat.
Try phone calls, SMS, FaceTime, email, or group chats on age-appropriate platforms. Avoid anonymous or public apps for private convos.
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Back up your contacts.
Save your friends’ numbers or emails somewhere safe so you don’t lose touch.
2. If your siblings have different rules
It’s normal for siblings to have different social media rules based on age. If that’s challenging, here’s how to handle it:
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Talk it out.
Ask your parents or carers why the rules are different. Understanding helps things feel fairer.
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Make family agreements.
Set shared rules around screen time, privacy settings, and which apps are okay.
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Respect shared devices.
If you share a phone or tablet, set up separate profiles so everyone’s privacy is protected.
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Be a role model.
Older siblings can help younger ones learn safe online habits, such as checking privacy settings and reporting harmful content.
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Include everyone.
If someone can’t use certain apps, find other ways to stay connected, like family chats, school platforms, games, or hangouts.
3. If things feel hard
The social media rules changing might bring up a range of feelings and concerns. Here are some things to keep in mind:
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You won’t get in trouble for staying on an app but if you’re under 16 and still using a platform there is a chance your account could be paused or deleted without warning.
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Your safety is number one
When it comes to entering any personal details, if you’re unsure about the right or safe thing to do, talk to a trusted adult first. Staying safe is more important than staying online.
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When things go wrong talk to a trusted adult.
Chat with a parent, family member, teacher, or school counsellor if you’re feeling unsure, pressured, or upset about what’s happening online.
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Block or report.
If someone’s making you uncomfortable or asking for stuff they shouldn’t, block them and report it in the app.
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Make a report to eSafety.
If things keep happening or feel serious, you can report it to eSafety — they’re there to help.
4. Everyone feels differently — and that’s okay
The changes to social media can feel different for everyone. Some young people might not mind at all, it might even feel like a break. For others, it can feel stressful, frustrating, unfair, or even lonely. All of those feelings are valid.
Here are a few ways to look after yourself:
• Take short breaks from screens.
Give your brain and body a rest; go for a walk, listen to music, hang out with someone, or do something creative.
• Stay connected in real life.
Apps aren’t the only way to keep friendships strong. Try phone calls, group chats on safe platforms, or meeting up in person. Remember: losing an app doesn’t mean losing your friendships.
• There are always safe ways to reconnect — and your real connections go beyond any platform.
• If you want to connect with peers, eheadspace runs weekly group chats where you can connect with other people who might be going through similar situations to you.
• headspace: social media & technology resources
The headspace Content Reference Group oversee and approve resources made available on this website.
Last reviewed November 2025.
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