Social media platforms to be forced to offer algorithm opt-out

The federal government plans to introduce legislation that would compel social media platforms to offer users the ability to opt-out of their algorithms. The bill, dubbed the Digital Duty of Care, aims to hold social media companies accountable for minimizing and preventing harm on their platforms. The legislation would require companies to provide users with a choice to turn off their algorithmic feeds, accessed through pop-up messages.

The proposed law would place the responsibility on social media companies to identify and mitigate risks on their platforms, including illegal content and content that may cause harm to minors. This includes identifying and addressing issues such as body image concerns and bullying. Social media companies could face substantial fines exceeding $100 million for non-compliance.

Algorithms would be required to display regular pop-up messages, enabling users to choose between following the algorithm or only seeing content from the accounts they follow. These algorithms are based on factors like a user's consumption habits, demographics, and location data. They have faced criticism for promoting sensationalist content, creating echo chambers, and potentially radicalizing young users.

The e-Safety Commissioner and independent researchers would be granted the authority to oversee social media platforms, using "sock puppets" to monitor content exposure to children online. However, the opposition has expressed mixed views on the matter. While some, like Shadow Communications Minister Sarah Henderson, acknowledge the dangers of algorithms, others, such as Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, have expressed skepticism and concerns about potential censorship of opinions.

The Greens have called for a more stringent approach, proposing that users must actively opt-in to algorithmic feeds rather than being subjected to these systems.