'Ban ineffective, parental controls work better.'

src/content/the_failing_social_media_ban.md

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+# The Failing Social Media Ban
+
+## Introduction
+
+I've read today that Australia's social media is failing [link](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-06-19/teen-social-media-ban-technology-concerns/105430458). Since it was announced, I've been skeptical of any technical way the government can actually achieve this.
+
+## The Technical Hurdles
+
+The only other mechanism considered by the Australian Government is some sort of “Proof of Age” API provided directly to users. This raises massive concerns about privacy and data retention sovereignty [link](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-06-19/teen-social-media-ban-technology-concerns/105430458).
+
+## Why Technical Programs Fail
+
+These technical programs were forever doomed from the start due to their high cost, broad requirements for functionality (which no social media giants are willing or able to fulfill), and lack of interest in achieving 100% recognition rates.
+
+## Legal Framework vs. Practical Tools
+
+It appears that it's time we call a sunk cost a sunk cost: move onto what this should have been from the beginning—a legal framework empowering parents with tools they already possess for monitoring tech use effectively [link](https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/microsoft-365/family-safety).
+
+## Existing Effective Solutions
+
+### Parental Controls on Devices
+
+I personally utilize ACL lists available in my router to restrict internet access overnight. This method is effective and straightforward, as detailed here: [link](https://en.fritz.com/service/knowledge-base/dok/FRITZ-Box-7530/8_Restricting-internet-use-with-the-FRITZ-Box-parental-controls/).
+
+### Mobile Device Management
+
+For mobile devices like phones running Android or iOS, there are built-in parental control systems that allow parents to approve apps and manage screen time effectively. Here’s a guide for Google Family Link: [link](https://families.google/familylink/) | Apple Screen Time Guide: [link](https://support.apple.com/en-au/105121).
+
+### Centralized Gaming Control
+
+Central gaming computers can be managed with strict rules, ensuring that only approved content is accessible. This method keeps entertainment in check and safe for children.
+
+## Summary
+
+These tools provide everything a parent needs to monitor technology use within the household effectively without imposing arbitrary age limits or application lists based on external influences like government officials' whims. Anything other than broad “thou shalt not” legislation, which I’ve proven is unenforceable [link](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-06-19/teen-social-media-ban-technology-concerns/105430458), amounts to a waste of energy and taxpayer dollars.