Mother's fight for stricter social media laws after daughter's tragic death

A mother in Canada is pushing for stricter social media regulations after her daughter’s death. Chelsey Whittingham believes platforms repeatedly exposed her 13-year-old, Maddy Croswell, to harmful content. She now demands action to protect vulnerable children online. Maddy Croswell died last September. Her mother, Chelsey Whittingham, claims social media algorithms targeted her with self-harm and suicide-related material. She argues existing parental controls fail to block such content effectively.

Whittingham is urging tech companies to prioritise user safety over profits. She also supports Canada’s proposed social media bill but insists on stronger transparency and independent oversight. Education for both parents and children on online risks remains a key part of her campaign.

British Columbia’s Attorney General, Niki Sharma, has welcomed Australia’s tougher penalties for social media age law breaches. The maximum fine there now reaches $99 million. Sharma believes this level of punishment will make for-profit companies take notice and change their practices. Whittingham continues to advocate for regulation of harmful content aimed at minors. Australia’s new penalty sets a precedent that could influence other nations. The push for accountability in social media operations is gaining momentum among policymakers and families alike.