Australia is planning to require social media companies to give users a straightforward choice over whether they use personalised algorithms. The proposed rules would allow people to opt in to or opt out of algorithm-driven personalisation on social media platforms.
The plans were discussed with people in Sydney, where Australians considered the prospect of having greater control over how social media services operate for them. The ability to choose whether to use personalised algorithms was viewed positively by those interviewed.
The proposal focuses on making the choice accessible rather than leaving users with a single default system. Under the plans, social media companies would be required to provide users with an easy way to change their preference.
The supplied details do not identify which companies would be covered, when the rules could take effect or how platforms would implement the opt-in and opt-out options. Australia’s plans are centred on giving users a direct say in whether their social media experience is shaped by personalised algorithms.
