Indonesia Considers E-Commerce Ban for Under-16s in Digital Safety Push

Jakarta— Indonesia is considering banning access to e-commerce platforms for users under 16, Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said on Wednesday, as authorities expand efforts to protect minors online following a recent social media crackdown.

Hafid said the move was under review after authorities identified cases of children becoming victims of scams through online shopping platforms. She did not provide details on how such a ban would be implemented or enforced.

The proposal follows a sweeping regulation introduced in March prohibiting under-16s from accessing social media platforms, part of a broader initiative to shield young users from risks including cyberbullying, online exploitation, and internet addiction.

Indonesia’s earlier restrictions initially targeted eight platforms deemed “high risk,” including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox, with plans to extend coverage to all digital platforms over time.

The government’s actions come amid growing global scrutiny of online safety for minors. Officials have cited concerns over exposure to harmful content and fraudulent activity as key drivers of policy expansion into e-commerce.

Indonesia is among the largest digital markets in Southeast Asia, with tens of millions of young internet users, making enforcement and compliance key considerations as authorities weigh broader platform restrictions.