US Warns Australia Over Social Media Rules

The United States has warned Australia against enacting proposed social media regulations, characterizing potential fines for technology companies as a form of "extortion." The Trump administration stated it would raise concerns with trading partners over measures that could affect American tech firms, including Australia's draft Digital Duty of Care bill. The proposed legislation, released by Australia's center-left Labor government, would require social media platforms to offer users a choice to opt out of algorithmically ranked feeds. It also mandates protections against harmful or illegal content. Breaches of these rules could result in penalties exceeding A$100 million. White House spokesperson Kush Desai said President Trump has "unequivocally warned trading partners against imposing digital services taxes, fines, and other forms of extortion on Americas leading technology sector." The administration indicated it remains committed to addressing these issues with its trading partners.