Australia Considers Action Against App Stores, Search Engines in AI Crackdown

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Australia Targets App Stores, Search Engines in AI Age Crackdown

FILE PHOTO: Figurines with computers and smartphones are seen in front of the words "Artificial Intelligence AI" in this illustration created on February 19, 2024. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo

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CNBC TV18•02-03-2026, 06:52

Australia Targets App Stores, Search Engines in AI Age Crackdown

•Australia's internet regulator may pressure app stores and search engines to block AI services failing age verification.
•Over half of AI services haven't announced compliance steps for next week's deadline, a Reuters review found.
•The crackdown aims to prevent minors from accessing harmful content like pornography and extreme violence, with fines up to A$49.5 million.
•eSafety Commissioner warns of using full powers, including action against 'gatekeeper services' like search engines and app stores.
•Concerns rise over AI companies using emotional manipulation to entice young people into excessive chatbot usage.

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FILE PHOTO: eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant speaks during an interview, as a law banning social media for users under 16 in Australia takes effect, in Sydney, Australia, December 10, 2025. REUTERS/Hollie Adams/File Photo

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