Trump slams Australia’s social media crackdown as ‘extortion’
US President Donald Trump has condemned Australia’s recent moves to clamp down on social media – predominantly run by American tech companies – as “a form of extortion”, hinting at more threats to come. “President Trump has unequivocally warned trading partners against imposing digital services taxes, fines, and other forms of extortion on America’s leading technology sector,” White House…
President Donald Trump has criticized Australia's latest efforts to regulate social media, calling it "a form of extortion". The Australian government, however, maintains that its new measures are aimed at protecting users, particularly minors. The "My Feed, My Way" initiative, announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, allows Australians to opt out of social media algorithms.
The government is also considering a mandatory "digital duty of care" law, which would require tech companies like Meta Platforms, Google, and TikTok to protect users from harmful content. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to A$100 million. Australia's stance on digital regulation has drawn the ire of the US, with Trump warning against such measures.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
