Pinterest CEO Bill Ready has advocated for a social media ban for users under 16 in a recent Time op-ed. He is among the few high-profile CEOs supporting such a restriction as governments globally explore measures to limit children’s online activity and implement age verification. Ready describes the current scenario as the largest social experiment, exposing children to “unfiltered access” to social media, which research indicates has contributed to rising depression, anxiety, and decreased concentration among youth.
He criticizes social media platforms for not considering their impact on children and commends Australia’s ban on underage users, suggesting other countries follow suit if tech companies neglect youth safety. Ready compares tech industry’s disregard for public welfare to past attitudes of tobacco executives, emphasizing the necessity of protective policies akin to those in alcohol and tobacco industries. Pinterest, having restricted its social features to users under 16, reportedly sees success with Gen Z.
Countries like Australia, Malaysia, Spain, and Indonesia have initiated similar bans, prompting significant debate within tech circles, though legislators remain resolute. France recently approved a ban for users under 15, and Germany’s ruling party supports similar measures. In the U.S., states are actively considering ways to limit minors’ social media access.