Pinterest chief calls for stricter youth rules
Executive says tech firms failed to protect youth online.
The chief executive of Pinterest has voiced support for governments banning access to social media for people under 16. He cited rising concerns about mental health, screen addiction and online harms among young users.
He praised the Australian decision to ban social media for under-16s and urged other nations to adopt similar protections. He argued that existing tech safety measures have fallen short of keeping children secure online.
The executive warned that AI enhancements in social platforms may amplify behavioural influence on teens. He compared the inaction by tech companies to past resistance by harmful industries to public health safeguards.
He also highlighted surveys showing parental worries about explicit content and excessive screen time. Pinterest’s view supports calls for clear age limits, better tools for parents and stronger platform accountability.
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