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Letter: Age-restricted devices are no quick fix (1)

Published 8 April 2026

From Wai Wong, Melbourne, Australia

Some readers suggest using age-restricted devices to enforce a social media ban. Such a measure can be easily circumvented by using a shared computer or buying an extra device to access social media. A cheap smartphone or tablet can be had for no more than the cost of a week’s lunch or a month’s vaping. An outdated or faulty second-hand smartphone that can still run apps can be even more affordable. On the other hand, such a measure will cost families lots of money and create a lot of e-waste, not only during the introduction of the measure, but also when the children grow up (Letters, 21 March).

Issue no. 3590 published 11 April 2026

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